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MEMOIRS f7
AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
OF SOME OF THE
WEALTHY CITIZEI^S
OF PHILADELPHIA,
WITH A FAIR ESTIMATE OF THEIR ESTATES— FOUNDED UPON
A KNOWLEDGE OF FACTS.
WITH AN APFExNDIX:
CONTAINING PARTICULAR ACCOl'NTS OF THE LIVES OF
STEPHEN GIRARD, JACOB RIDGWAY, and OBED COLEMAN,
OBTAIKED FBOM AUTHENTIC SOURCES.
BY A MERCHANT OF PHILADELPHIA. •
PHILADELPHIA: ^~" '7'. S^y
PUBLISHED BY THE BOOKSELLER'S,
1846.
■.■2.f
,K46
PREFACE.
In submitting to the public this work, the writer wishei it to be understood, that the
facts stated are chiefly derived from authentic sources— from official records in ■ome
cases— from the persona themselves in others, and generally from certain data. It is
unlike the ephemeral things that have passed away, purporting to be somewhat simi-
lar in their object, and he, therefore, confidently lays its contents before a liberal and
candid community for their verdict— their sentence, and will be satisfied with their de-
cision.
In'England, and in some parts of this country, all the rich men are aristocrats ; not
so, however, in Philadelphia ; most of our wealthy citizens are plain men, and although
they pride themselves for having made their own money, live in a plain way, and do
not spend their entire income. "The power of wealth, which is substantial, gains
every day upon that of birth; which is fanciful. Sir Robert Peel, the son of a cotton
spinner, whose sole patent of nobility was his money, rules the whole aristocracy of
England, with an absolute power which no sovereign has exercised sinee the time Of
old (lueen Bess." The present lord chancellor, by virtue of his station, the head of no-
bility, is the son of a Boston portrait painter I
Stephen Girard and Jacob Ridgway, were plain men, without personal pride, and the
enemies to ostentation and display. What a commentary upon riches and birth— upon
aristocracy.
Entered according to the act of Congress, in the Clerk's Office of the District Court for
the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, in the year 1846.
MEMOIRS
▲KD
AUTOBIOGRAPHY
OF SOME OF THE
WEALTHY CITIZENS
OF PHILADELPHIA, &c.
Abbott, Timothy (Estate) 200,000
Mr. Abbott was once of the firm of Abbott & Barnes, Curriers and Leather
Dealers, and afterwards in the same business with David Kirkpatrick, under the
firm of Timothy Abbott & Co., in which he made a large fortune. He als© made
money by the purchase and sale of real estate. He died last year.
Abbott, Johns & Lambert 100,000
Dealers in silks and fancy goods; doing a wholesale business in Market street.
Abbott, C. H. & G. 50,000
Sons of the late Timothy Abbott. In the wholesale cutlery and hardware
business. Importers and dealers.
Adams, Robert (Estate) 50,000
Mr. Adams was an Irishman by birth ; came to this country when a young
man, and married a Philadelphia lady, who now survives him. He made his
money chiefly in the liquor business, and by consignments of sugars from the
West Indies. His vndow and sons continue the business.
Agnew, Samuel 60,000
Alburger, William M. 50,000
A Plumber, residing in the district of Spring Garden ; made his money by at-
tention to business and invested it in real estate.
Alsop, Amy 100,000
Alsop, Richard (Estate) 100,000
Amer, William 100,000
An adopted citizen, who made his money here entirely in the morocco and
leather business in North Third street.
Anderson, William V. 75,000
Son of the late Samuel V. Anderson, one of our most respectable grocers, and
who for a long series of years resided next door to the late Stephen Girard. in
north Water street, who, during their lives were fi-iends as well as neighbors.
His son, the above, is also in the wholesale grocery business. Is a Director of the
Bank of Pennsylvania.
Andrade, Joseph 75,000
A Frenchman by birth ; came to this country in 1817, and has been engaged
4 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
in the Brokerage business ever since. A respectable, worthy and charitable citi-
zen, and lately announced as one of the Executors to the large estate of Fournier
Rostain, deceased.
Andrews & Co., J. & J. B. 70,000
Lumber .Merchants — doing business at the north west corner of Tenth and
South streets. Property in good real estate.
Archer, Joseph (Estate,) .S00,000
The son of the late Samuel Archer — one of the most upright and enterprising
merchants of our city. Joseph made his money in Canton, China ; died soon
after and left it to his relations in Philadelphia.*
Armstrong, Andrew 50,000
By birth an Irishman ; came to this country many years ago and married here ;
made his money in the grocery business, and invested in good real estate. A
good citizen and intelligent man.
Ardley, Alexander 50,000
Made his money as one of the firm of A. S. & E. Roberts & Co., in the drug
business.
Asbury, Samuel 100,000
A English importer of china and earthenware ; doing a large and profitable
business on British account.
Ashmead, John W. GO.OOO
A respectable lawyer and good citizen ; a printer by trade. An active member
of the Native American party, by which he was nominated as their candidate for
Congress, in the second congressional district, at the last congressional election.
He was formerly a member of the Legislature from tha city proper.
Ashhurst & Remington. 75,000
Wholesale dealers in dry goods, doing business in Market street below Tliird.
• We avail ourselves of the occasion, to say a few words of Samuel Archer,
the father of Joseph. In early life, Mr. Samuel Archer was an industrious and
highly respected mechanic, but soon left his trade for the business of merchandiz-
ing, in which he took great pleasure, and although eventually unfortunate, he
amassed during his life-time several large fortunes, under different firms. He
was at one time connected in business with Robert L. Pitfield, under the firm of
Samuel Archer & Co.; at another time under Archer & Bispham. Mr. Stacy B.
Bispham, now diseased, being his partner, and more latterly with Isaac C. Jones,
and Richard Oakford. not altering, however, the firm of his house, which was, for
twenty years before his death, that of Samuel Archer, a name that will long be
known to Philadelphia for the great worth, virtue and charity of its possessor.
Mr. Archer was truly unfortunate in his last days, and the thread of life was no
doubt cut short by the calamities that befel him. At the time of his death he
owed the government less than half a million, and his debtors owed him more
than a million of ,lollars ! In the autumn of 1810, Mr. Archer visited England
for the purpose of purchasing British and other goods, in the ship Hercules, of
New York, fi-om which port he sailed. His credit in London, Manchester, and
other parts of Europe, was unlimited — he therefore made a most lucky and pros-
perous traffic, by his importations arriving in this country previous to the war
with England of 1812. The goods he imported paid immense profits, and he
amassed, at this period of his life, a fortune that should have endured to him and
his for ages. But he possessed too much of the milk of human kindness — he
was the friend, benefactor, patron and supporter of all who applied to him for re-
lief, and we sorely regret the return he met with in this world for so many favors
bestowed. His list of bad debts upon his ledger, as above stated, when he de-
parted this hfe, a few years since at the age of 63, may well account for his
untimely fate ; for he was naturally of a strong and robust constitution.
OF WEALTHT MEN. O
Ashhurst, Richard 250,000
By birth an Englishman — came to this country before the last war ; was once
a book-keeper for the old House of Guest & Bancker ; then a partner of the
House of Wheeler & Ashhurst, and now in business with his sons; but made his
money by himself in the dry goods business. Married a respectable widow lady
by the name of Mrs. Hughes. A good citizen with a large family.
Ashhurst, Lewis R. 100,000
Son of Richard Ashhurst, and in business with his father in the wholesale dry
goods trade, in Market street, east of Third.
Ashhurst, John 100,000
Brother to the above, and son of Richard Ashhurst.
Ashhurst, William H. 100,000
Also, brother to the above, and son of Richard Ashhurst.
Astley, Thomas (Estate) 50,000
Mr. Astley was an Englishman of high standing, and married into one of our
best families, and was for many years one of the most respectable and honorable
British agents doing business in our city. He resided in the house he had built
for himself at the south west corner of Ninth and Walnut streets.
At wood, John M. 150,000
A wholesale dry goods merchant from New England, who made all his money
here by constant application to business, and attention to the fluctuations of trade.
Atkinson, Joel 50,000
Formerly a respectable tailor, but made his money principally by purchases in
real estate, now comparatively retired from all business.
Atherton, Henry 60,000
Attorney at Law, residing in one of the City Houses, derived from Stephen
Girard, in Chestnut street above Eleventh.
Atwood, James 100,000
A brother to John M.; came from New England, and made all his money here
in the dry goods business.
Auner, Joseph G. 50,000
Made his money as a bookseller and stationer ; obtained some, also, by marriage.
Backus, E. F. 100,000
A gentleman of fine literary taste from the eastward ; retired from business.
Baker, George N. 150,000
Engaged in the lumber business ; once an active politician, and State Senator.
Barclay, Andrew C. 150,000
Engaged largely in the shipping and commission business. A Director of the
Bank of Northern Liberties.
'Baker, Michael 100,000
By trade a carpenter ; once a member of our City Councils ; a builder for the
late Stephen Girard ; and appointed by the late George Pepper one of his execu-
tors.
Baldwin, Stephen 75,000
An extensive shipping merchant in the Liverpool trade, and Vice President of
the American Insurance Company.
Baker, Charles H. 100.000
President of the Philadelphia Insurance Company, and a gentleman of excel-
lent business habits, and a Philadclphian by birth.
6 MEMOIRS AND A.tJTO-BIOGRAPHY
Barclay, John A. 50,000
At one time a clerk for the late Stephen Girard, who at his death made him
one of his executors, the foundation of his present fortune. A Philadelphian.
Bauersachs, J. N. 100,000
A German by birth ; came to this country many years ago ; a large importer of
German goods and toys, doing a regular business in Market street.
Barclay, Miss — North Third street, 50,000
Barcroft, Stacy B. 150,000
Ball, George W. 50,000
Baker, John R. (Estate) 100,000
Bayard, James 75,000
Son of the late Andrew Bayard, auctioneer, of the old House of Petit &, Bay-
ard. Mr. B. married an heiress, is an attorney at law, and has been a member
of our State Legislature.
Barton, J. Rhea, M. D. 1,000,000
A handsome man, who has married on two occasions, an heiress. He is a
native of Philadelphia, a skillful surgeon and possesses fine talents and taste.
Baker, Michael V. 50,000
Son of Michael Baker, (retired.) Wholesale dealer and importer of hardware
and cutlery, doing a prudent business in Market street ; formerly in partnership
with a son of John Moss, under the firm of Baker & Moss.
Bailey & Kitchen, 100,000
Importers and extensive jewellers and silversmiths, in Chestnut street. Men of
industry, enterprise and taste.
Barton, Thomas P, 100,000
A gentleman of fine literary acquirements, residing in Chestnut street. Mar-
ried a daughter of the late Edward Livingston, forraerlj' Secretary of State under
President Jackson's administration, by whom he obtained part of his fortune.
Bates, James 50,000
Tailor, doing a large business in Market street ; owns much real estate in the
district of Spring Garden.
Bacon, John 50,000
One of the Directors of the Bank of the United States; was once in business
with Joshua Longstreth ; now retired. He married a lady of fortune — Miss
Warder.
Barclay, J. M. 50,000
A Philadelphian who married the daughter of a rich planter in Louisiana, by
whom he acquired a fortune.
Bainbridge, Mrs. Susan 50,000
Widow of the late Commodore Bainbridge, whose memory was immortalized
by his acts of bravery in the last war with Great Britian.
Beck, Jr., Paul (Estate) 1,000,000
Benson, Richard (Estate) 50,000
Berrill, Henry 50,000
Bernadou, John B. 50,000
A polite, gentleipanly Frenchman, concerned in the shipping bushiess ; came to
our city many years since, and is much respected.
OF WBALTIIY HEK. 7
Bettle, Sen., Samuel 125,000
Made his money chiefly as an importer and dealer in superfine cloths and cas-
simeres. He is a good and worthy citizen.
Beck, Henry Paul 200,000
Son of the rich Paul Beck, jr., deceased, who married an heiress of New York,
and lives in the most splendid style.
Beck, Charles F. 175,000
Son of the rich Paul Beck, jr., deceased, by whom this sum was bequeathed.
Bevan, Matthew L. 100,000
After passing through various vicissitudes in life, Mr. B. may be fairly esti-
mated as worth this sum. He was at one time in partnership with a Mr. Porter,
under the firm of Bevan & Porter, and is now doing business with Stem Hum-
phreys and Joseph H. Cabot, under the firm of Bevan & Humphreys.
Benson, Alexander 50,000
A leading stock and exchange broker, and a good citizen. He married a
daughter of the late Caleb North, high sheriff of the city and county of Philadel-
phia, and a soldier of the revolutionary war, and one of the few who escaped the
" Massacre of the Paoli," in Chester County, Pennsylvania.
Beckett, Henry 200,000
An Englishman by birth — had a brother in Parliament ; came to this country
many years ago, as a British agent ; married the daughter of the rich James
Lisle, deceased, by whom he acquired a fortune. Now on a tour to Europe.
Beehler, Tobias (Estate) 50,000
Mr. Beehler came to this country from Germany a pennyless youth, and made
his money in the sugar refinery business, by restless industry and strict economy.
Binney, Horace 300,000
Came to this city at an early age, and studied law. He is a sound lawyer and
eminent statesman — a kind, generous and philanthropic citizen. He has raised
himself to his present elevated rank ; was a director of the first Bank of the United
States in the days of Thomas Willing and George Simpson. Has been a repre-
sentative in Congress, &c., but has lately declined all public office. Owns a
splendid country seat at Burlington, N. J., and has the bulk of his fortune in-
vested in good bonds and mortgages on some of the best real estate in our city
and county.
Binney, Jr., Horace 100,000
Son of the rich Horace Binney ; married a lady of New York. Attorney at
law, and captain of a handsome company of volunteers.
Biddle, Thomas 50,000
Related to the late Nicholas Biddle, and at one thne doing the most extensive
brokerage business in the city. He was at one period of his life the broker of
the late Stephen Girard.
Bird, Charles 100,000
Formerly one of our most enterprising citizens, and an extensive importer of
hardware ; property chiefly invested in real estate, for the purchase and sale of
which he has always displayed a fondness.
Bicknell, Mrs. Marinda 50,000
Biddle, Clement 75,000
Biddle & Co., Thomas A. 150,000
Stock Brokers, and pretty extensive operators at one time ; also, related to the
late N. Biddle.
Bingham, Dock & Stratton, 50,000
8 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
Biddle, Clement C. (Colonel) 75,000
President of the Philadelphia Savings Institution ; son of the late Clement Bid-
die, and a cousin to the late Nicholas Biddle, and a most worthy citizen. He at
one time belonged to the United States regular army.
Birkey, Dr. W. T. 75,000
A most skillful and popular surgeon dentist in full practice, received a sound
medical education. Is devoted to his business, which is the largest in the city.
Biddle, Edward C. 60,000
Eldest son of the late Nicholas Biddle.
Biddle, Commodore 50,000
An honor to our navy ; a lover of the good things of the world ; a brother to
the late Nicholas Biddle.
Bispham, Samuel 75,000
Blight, Maria 50,000
Widow of the late George Blight, and daughter of Peter Blight, both at one
time eminent merchants of Philadelphia, with houses in Canton, and largely en-
gaged in the China trade.
Blackstone, Thomas 50,000
Originally from the South — was at one time in the dry goods business in
Market street, but is now retired. Married a Miss Yohe, by whom he acquired
most of his fortune.
Bond, Thomas 50,000
Boker, Charles S. 100,000
President, and one of the Trustees and Directors of the Girard Bank. He
came from Massachusetts, formerly a clerk with Mr. Leland in the wholesale
bonnett and shoe business, afterwards went into business on his own account ;
built or purchased a handsome house in south Third street, near the Mansion
House. Mr. B. is of most excellent business habits, and as a banker, generally
advocates discounting the paper of industrious beginners.
Bousquet, Peter 50,000
Boyd, David (Tailor) 50,000
Mr. Boyd owns two valuable farms in the interior of the State ; a valuable row
of buildings at Bush Hill, in the District of Spring Garden, Boyd's Avenue in
the city, and still attends to his business. Mr. B. is a shrewd, industrious man,
who prides himself on being a son of the Emeral Isle.
Bohlen, Henry 200,000
Is consul for the Netherlands.
Borie, Adolph E. 100,000
Son of the late J. J. Borie ; is consul for Belgium, and acting consul for Sicily.
Borie, Charles L. 100,000
Also, a son of J. J. Borie, Senr., deceased.
Borie, J. J. 100,000
Also a son of J. J. Borie, Senr., deceased.
Bovven, William E. 150,000
A native of Philadelphia, and son of the late Captain Bowen, who was lost at
sea, and who was once in the employ of the late Stephen Girard. Mr. B. is of
the firm of Browns & Bowen of this city, and connected with the House of
Brown, Brothers & Co., New York; and Brown, Shipley & Co., Liverpool. Has
by his own industry and attention to commercial and financiering affairs risen to
his present standing and fortune.
OF WEALTHY MEN.
9
Boyd, William 50,000
Once a member of our State Legislature, and Director of the Delaware Insur-
ance Company ; a respectable and worthy citizen.
Bohlen,Johii 1,250,000
Believed to be of German origin. Made his large fortune in the Holland trade,
having for a long time the almost entire monopoly of the same. He married a
lady of this city, and is a man of integrity and worth.
Bouvier, Michael 100,000
The proprietor of one of the most extensive mahogany and marble steam saw
factories in the United States, giving employment to many persons. He is an
adopted citizen and made his money by years of industry and close attention to
business.
Brandreth, Benjamin 150,000
The celebrated manufacturer and vender of Brandreth's Pills. He resides
mostly at Sing Sing, New York, where he has a splendid country seat. He is a
capital, rare and good fellow. Came from England.
Bray, Daniel 125,000
Brady, P. 50,000
Merchant and British agent. Mr. B. is an instance of a sudden rise to fortune
by industry and strict attention to business. He is by birth an Irishman.
Breck, Samuel 200,000
He came from Boston, and married the daughter of the late John Ross, of the
House of Ross & Simson, merchants. He has often been a member of our State
Legislature, and upon more than one occasion, a candidate for congress.
Bretz, Jacob (Estate) 50,000
Brinkle, Dr. Wm. D. 50,000
A physician in full practice : related to the late Dr. Physic, and married a lady
of New Jersey.
Brinton, George 60,000
Retired on his fortune.
Brooks, Samuel 50,000
Engaged in the coasting trade and shipping business ; a merchant of long and
good standing. A Director of the Commercial Bank.
Brock, Sen., & Co., John 50,000
Brolaskey, Joseph L. 75,000
Began business with a small capital, and has made a fortune, chiefly in the
retail fancy dry goods business.
Brown, Washington 50,000
Merchant from the eastward. Importer of woollen yarns and carpetings; also
agent for American manufactures, and doing a good business.
Brown, John A. 500,000
Now retired ; formerly of the well known and extensive firm of John A. Brown
•fcCo.
Browns & Bowen, 350,000
The Browns, formerly connected with the House of John A. Brown & Co.
Brown, Joseph D. 200,000
One of the partners of the ancient House of William Chancellor & Co., and
afterwards of the firm of Chancellor, Brown & Hall ; extensive wholesale tlry
goods houses and importers. Mr. Brown is now retired from all business.
Brown, Jeremiah 50,000
10 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
Brown, Lewis 100,000
Mr. Brown was once engaged as an assistant in the auction store of Messrs.
Lisle, Weir & Co., and by his own industry and attention to business, amassed
this large fortune, and is one of our most correct men of business in the dry goods
line.
Brown, Joseph 100,000
An Englishman by birth ; dealer in British small wares ; an industrious and
worthy citizen.
Brown, Samuel 50,000
Retired from all business ; by trade a painter and glazier, but made the chief of
his money in the tea dealing business at a good time, and invested it in good real
estate in the city proper.
Brown, David S. 300,000
Of the firm of Brown & Co., one of the most extensive and wealthy Houses
engaged in the American dry goods trade, and has several partners. Mr. B is a
correct and worthy member of the community. One of the Directors of the Gi-
rard Bank, and is very attentive to business.
Bryan & Mcllhenney 50,000
In the shipping and commission business. Timothy M. Bryan is the special
partner.
Bryan, T. M. 50,000
Dry goods merchant, and son of the late Guy Bryan, and grand son of Timo-
thy Matlack, of ancient times.
Bryan, Rodman & Heylin 50,000
Dry goods merchants. Timothy M. Bryan, one of the firm, is a son of the
late Guy Bryan, at one time a partner in the same business with the late William
Schlatter.
Bryan, William P. (Estate) 50,000
Burt, Nathaniel 150,000
An adopted citizen ; came to this city many years ago ; was very attentive to
the dry goods business, in which he made his money, and invested it in real estate.
Burgin, Dr. G. H. 75,000
Busch, M. 50,000
Brush maker. Made his own money by constant industry, and close applica-
tion to business, and giving employment to many male and female operatives in
his line of business.
Burrough, H. N. 75,000
Buck & Potter, 150,000
Silk merchants, and dealers in fancy dry goods.
Buck, C. N. 50,000
Consul General of Hamburg, and President of the Columbia Insurance Com-
pany ; a German by birth ; came to this country many years ago, and married a
lady of Philadelphia.
Burton, Dr. John 50,000
Came from the State of Delaware ; a business man ; manied in this city a lady
of some fortune.
Burd, Mrs. S. 100,000
A widow — a gentlewoman. Property in real estate.
Butterfield & Fisher, 75,000
Extensive importers of British goods.
OF WEALTHY MEN. 11
Butler, Thomas (Estate,) 250,000
Buller, Miss Eliza _ 150,000
Daughter of the late Pierce Butler, and aunt to the present Pierce and John
Butler,
Butler, John 150,000
Buzby, Hezekiah 100,000
Made the chief of his money in the flour business in Market street, from which
he is now retired.
Butcher, T. T. & W. 50,000
Sons of the late Amos W. Butcher, and enterprising men of business.
Burgess, Robert (Estate) 150,000
Budd, John B. 50,000
Burd, Edmund S. 500,000
Received the greater part of his fortune from his father, which being mostly
real estate located in the city proper, greatly increased in value. He ovras and
occupies the splendid mansion, (built by Joseph Suns,) at the south western cor-
ner of Ninth and Chestnut streets.
Bury, John 100,000
An Englishman by birth, who made his money in this city, and is now retired
from all business.
Burton, Robert 100,000
Byerly, Mrs. Ann 50,000
Gentlewoman, and widow of John Byerly, deceased.
Cadbury, Joel 50,000
An Englishman by birth, married a lady of Philadelphia, by whom he acquired
his fortune.
Cadwalader, Mary 50,000
Widow of General Thomas Cadwalader, and daughter of the late respected
Clement Biddle. Mother of General George and John Cadwalader.
Carey, E. L. (Estate,) 250,000
Carson & Newbold, - 75,000
Camm, William 75,000
Formerly in the hat and fur business — now retired. A Director of the West-
ern Bank.
Campbell, John H. 50,000
Attorney at Law, Solicitor and Director of the Bank of Pcnn Township.
Last year (1844) elected to Congress from the third district by the Native
American party. He was once a member of the Legislature of the state from the
city, elected by the Democrats, but on the removal of the public depositcs by
President Jackson, rather forsook his party, and was neutral, until the native
party originated, when he took a decided stand in its favor, and was in conse-
quence elevated to a seat in Congress. Mr. C. is a worthy and respectable
citizen.
Carpenter, George W. 300,000
Was born in Gerniantown, Pa.; is a son of Conrad Carpenter. Made his
money in the wholesale and retail drug business ; has built quite a palace at
Germantown, which cost over $100,000 — named after his present wife. Each
12 MEMOIRS AND ATJTO-BIOORAPHY
visiter wlio calls to view the premises, and writes his or her name in a book, gets
a book containing a history of the house and grounds gratis, containing also, a
list of the different mechanics employed to finish the building, in which Mr. C.
has displayed much taste. Mr. Carpenter is now married a second time, and
seems to think, from his own reflections contained in his published memoirs, that
a rural life, even in a village, is far preferable to one in the city, amid dust, drugs
and medicines. A Director of the Manufacturers and Mechanics Bank,
Cadvvalader, Thomas C. 100,000
A native of New Jersey, and son of a revolutionary hero — is a General of
New Jersey Militia, and has a beautiful summer residence near Trenton.
Caldcleugh, Robert A. 200,000
Of Scottish descent. Was formerly a stationer, manufacturer of paper hang-
ings, &c. A keen, shrewd man. Has acquired a very large estate, partly by
marriage, but much the larger portion by his own industry. Is now retired from
all business, and living in rather a plain, but happy and comfortable manner.
Casey, Joseph 50,000
A retired colored man, who by strict industry and economy at the hair dressing
business, has saved a handsome fortune.
Catherwood, Hugh 50,000
An adopted citizen, who came to this city early in life, and married here.
Cadvvalader, George 150,000
Son of General Thomas Cadwalader, who occupies a prominent place in the
history of our country. Is one of the best militia men of the day, and now a
Brigadier General of Pennsylvania militia. Lives retired.
Cadwalader, John 100,000
Brother to the above, and distinguished member of the bar. Is connected with
the Honorable Horace Binney, by marriage. His second wife was the widow of
the late Bloomfield Mcllvaine, an eminent member of the Philadelphia bar, who
died in the prime of life.
Carpenter, W. & F. 50,000
Made money fast in the tailoring business. Sons of John Carpenter, tailor,
men of close apphcation to their trade ; good and fashionable cutters. Property
in good real estate.
Cabot, Joseph 75,000
At present in business with Beven & Humphreys ; formerly in business with
J. W. Perit, under the firm of Perit & Cabot. He came from the eastward, and
married a lady of Philadelphia.
Campbell, St. George Tucker 50,000
Attorney and counseller at law. Married a Miss Mason, of Virginia. Nephew
of George Mifflin Dallas, and grandson of the late Alexander J. Dallas. A
young man not yet thirty years of age, and a surprising instance of success at the
Bar. On his uncle leaving this country, as minister to Russia, the charge of his
business being left in the hands of Mr. Campbell, introduced him to a practice,
which, together with his talents, placed him upon the road to fortune and dis-
tinction.
Carey & Hart, 300,000
Cassamajor, Jr. P. 50,000
Made his money in the west India business — was brought up in the counting
house of the late Rolent Adams. Now retired, and lives at ease.
Camac, Mrs. William 200,000
Of the Markoe family. A charming lady, and worthy her position in life. A
widow.
OF WEALTHY MEN. 18
Caldwell, James S. 60,000
Campbell & Co., H. & A. 50,000
Dry goods merchants, Market street, formerly connected with the late John
Gill.
Caldwell, J. T. 50,000
An eminent dentist from Virginia — property in real estate — possessing the true
characteristics of a Virginian in his genuine hospitality.
Campbell, Quintin 50,000
An adopted citizen ; for many years Cashier of the Philadelphia Bank ; now
President of the Pennsylvania Fire Insurance Company ; married a daughter of
the late David Lapsley, by whom he received a large portion of his fortune.
Calhoim, Giistavus 50,000
Of the old house of Gustavus & Hugh Calhoun, shipping merchants. Of Irish
descent. Has a daughter married to the rich John Bohlen.
Carrigan, Jr., Jacob 50,000
Made his money in the hardware saddlery business ; an enterprising citizen
doing a large business.
Carey, Henry C. 75,000
Eldest son of the late venerable Matthew Carey. Made his money in the
book selling business. He married a Miss Leslie, sister to the celebrated Ameri-
can painter of the same name now in London.
Camac's Estate, 100,000
Churchman, Charles W. 50,000
From a Quaker family of Bucks county ; was brought up in the counting
house of Joseph R. Evans. Has visited Europe, been a member of Common
Council, is agent in this city for the house of Wilde, Pickersgill & Co., Liverpool,
and is engaged in an extensive shipping and importing business.
Chapman, Dr. N. 100,000
One of our first medical men, and remarkable for his witticisms ; few men
have said better things than the facetious Dr. C. Who will wear his mantle 1
His bon-mots will live after him, and with the students of medicine forever. He
married a Miss Biddle.
Chambers, Rev. John 75,000
He married the widow of the late Silas E. Weir, auctioneer, by whom he ob-
tained his fortune ; is a popular temperance lecturer, and is pastor of a large and
respectable congregation.
Chauncey, Charles 300,000
Attorney at Law, came from New Haven, Conn. ; made his money all here
and invested it in Real Estate. A gentlemanly, and eminent counseller of most re-
spectable standing.
Chauncey, Elihu 100,000
A wholesale broker and dealer in money stocks, at one time a Director of the
Bank of Pennsylvania, and afterwards its Cashier. Married a lady of Virginia.
Christman, Henry 50,000
Chancellor, William .'50,000
Chandler, Joseph R. 75,000
Editor and proprietor of the United States Gazette — formerly a " school master
from abroad" — a native of New England. By strict attention to business has
amassed quite a snug fortune, and won the esteem of his fellow citizens. Has
been elected to many responsible stations of trust and honor. Is a free mason of
high standing, and an influential whig.
14 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHT
Charnley & Whelan, 50,000
Extensive Brokers, doing a good business in South Third street.
Chew, Benjamin (Estate,) 50,000
Mr. Chew was a much esteemed citizen, and resided at Germantown upon the
celebrated country seat where the battle was fought during the revolution. He
was the father of Benjamin, Samuel, Henry and WiUiam W. Chew.
Chauncy, Nathaniel 50,000
Brother to Charles and Elihu Chauncy, who all came from Connecticut.
Made his money under the auspices of his brothers during prosperous times. By
profession Attorney at Law, but now retired.
Chancellor, Hannah 100,000
Widow of the late rich William Chancellor, one of the oldest and most re-
spectable merchants. Mrs. Chancellor resides in Chesnut near Ninth street.
Chancellor, Wharton 75,000
Son of the above, who lives upon his fortune.
Chester, Henry 50,000
From New Haven, Conn., attorney at law and brother-in-law to the rich
Charles Chauncy, with whom he is a partner in the law business, under the firm
of Chauncy and Chester. He is gentlemanly in manners and appearance.
Claghorn, John W. 75,000
Clapier, Lewis (Estate,) 50,000
Clark, Lewis T. 50,000
Claypoole, David C. 50,000
At one time editor and publisher of the old " American Daily Advertiser," after-
wards published by the late Z. Poulson. Now retired ; married a lady of New
York the last time. Property in real estate.
Claghorn & Hill, 75,000
Extensive auctioneers, doing a good business in Market street.
Clark, William M. 75,000
Cope, Jasper (retired,) 100,000
Corbit, Henry C. (retired,) 50,000
Has been a member of city councils, visited Europe, been in the auction
business, &c.
Conner, David 150,000
A captain in the United States navy ; once had a sword presented to him by
our state Legislature. Married a daughter of the late Dr. Physick, and is one of
the ornaments of our navy.
Coxe, Daniel W. 100,000
Once a commercial man, now retired.
Cope, H. & A. 200,000
Part owners of the Liverpool Une of Packets, and sons of Thomas P. Cope, in
whose counting house they were brought up to the mercantile business.
Cope, Todhunter & Co., 100,000
Silk and fancy dry goods merchants, doing an extensive wholesale business.
Cope, Caleb 250,000
Cope, Israel (retired,) 100.000
Cope, Godfrey (Estate,) 50,000
Comegvs, Cornelius f Estate,) 100,000
OP WEALTHY MEN. 15
Cornelius & Co., 150,000
The famous lamp and chandelier manufacturers, who have made a large
fortune in the busmess, and are now establishing branches for the sale of their
goods in the incorporated districts of the county of Philadelphia, and elsewhere.
Conrad, Matthew 200 000
Made his money in the trunk and shoe business, in a long series of years. A
good citizen, and a self made man.
Coxe, Dr. John R. 50 000
A Philadelphian ; an author of a good medical work, and formerly one of the
professors in the university of Pennsylvania.
Coffin & Landell, 50 000
Came from the eastward; largely engaged in the soap, candle and oil
business.
Cope, J. J. 50,000
For many years first teller of the Commercial Bank ; at the death of the
cashier, the late Mr. Smith, he was promoted to his place.
Coles, Edward 50 000
A retired gentleman.
Collins, William 50 qoo
Married the widow of Stacy Bispham, who was a partner in business at one
time with the late enterprising and amiable citizen, Samuel Archer.
Coburn, Robert 150 000
Retired from business. Made the gieater part of his fortune in the distilling
busmess, and mvested in real estate. Is a Scotchman by birth, a clever shrewd
jo\aal old gentleman. ' '
Cope, Thomas P. 300,000
For a number of years the proprietor of the Liverpool Packets, and one of our
heaviest shippers. Is President of the Mercantile Library Company— has several
times been a member of Select Councils, and occupied numerous other honorable
stations. Is a philanthropist, and respected citizen. Belongs to the Society of
Friends— was a Director of the United States Bank. Has retired from busiiaess
and lives in an elegant mansion, in Spruce near Eighth street. '
Cowperthwait, Hulings 50 ooo
Brother of Joseph C, formerly Cashier of the Bank of the United States, in the
palmy days of Mr. Nicholas Biddle. Had a handsome legacy left him by the
late Dr. Hulmgs. He lately erected the handsome pile of buildings in Sixth
near Mulberry street. ^
Cope, Herman 50 qoq
^iS"pf?p'^™''M'°^?^'^*^^^.^"^'''^ States-formerly in partnership
with Caleb Cope in the silk and fancy dry goods business. He now gets a verv
handsome salary for his services. ^
Cowell, John V. en nnn
,- , ' . , 50,000
Made his money m the retail dry goods business, and afterwards by a fortunate
hit in the purchase of the house at the south west corner of Seventh and Cheshut
streets. Has been twice married.
Coleman, Obed (Estate,) 500,000
bee Appendix.
Cook, David 50 ooo
Ofthe old house of Wright & Cook, dry goods merchants, who made 'their
fortunes in more prosperous and profitable times than the present.
Cook, Alexander (Estate,) gO 000
16 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
Craige, Seth 100,000
Craig, Andrew C. 8c Co., 50,000
One of the partners is Hugh Catherwood, who made a large fortune in the
distilling business, and lives in good style in Walnut, west of Broad St.
Craig, Bellas & Co., 50,000
Craig, Holmes & Co., 100,000
Crean, William 50,000
Was in the lumber business with his brother John Crean, but were not very-
successful ; he derived the chief of his fortune from his father's estate.
Creighton & Wilson, 100,000
Adopted citizens ; an Irish importing house of long and respectable standing.
Crissy, James 50,000
One of fortune's favorite sons, who made his money in a rapid manner in the
fine and fancy book binding business.
Crawford, Henry 50,000
A deserving man, who made his money in the currying and leather business.
Crawford, Stephen R. 200,000
Crossman, Dr. T. J. 100,000
Laid the foundation of his fortune in Philadelphia. In 1840, on his return
from Europe, he was the first to introduce into this country, with success, the
operation for the cure of strabismus. He now resides in New York, and is said
to be worth trelilc this sum in good property.
Crothers, William S. (Estate,) 60,000
Cresson, Caleb (Estate,) 200,000
Cresson, Elliott * 100,000
Formerly of the old house of Cresson, Wistar & Co. ; now retired from busi-
ness, but a great friend of the project for colonizing the blacks of the south, as
the best mode of abolishing slavery, as well as the most satisfactory.
Cresson, Mrs. M. 100,000
The mother of Elliott Cresson — a widow — property in real estate.
Cresson, Joseph 50,000
Crutcher, Foster G. 50,000
Cresson, Sarah C. 100,000
Widow of the late Caleb Cresson, merchant, who still resides in the house her
husband built, in Mulberry near Eighth street.
Culp, Jacob 100,000
Cuthbert, Mary 50,000
Widow of the late Anthony Cuthbert. Property in real estate.
Cuesta, Miss 50,000
Davis, Thos., (Bookseller and Stationer,) 75,000
Davies, John 50,000
Made the chief of his money by the manufacture of blacking and vinegar, in
which he is still engaged, also, in the distilling business in company with Charles
Watres. Mr. Davies is an adopted citizen, and belongs to the Methodist society.
Davis, Isaac 100,000
This gentleman is a quaker, and, it is said, made his money a few years since.
OP WEALTHY MEN. 17
by the manufacture of rye coffee, and in the purchase of improving real estate in
tlie district of Spring Garden, and elsewhere.
Dallas, George Mifflin 50,000
Vice President of the United States. He married a Miss Nickhn, daughter of
the late Philip Nicklin, merchant, of this city. Has been United States Senator ;
minister to Russia, and was repeatedly offered seats in the cabinets of Presidents
Jackson and Van Buren. His salary is five thousand dollars per annum, as
Vice President, and he owns the house he resides in, in W^alnut near Tenth
street.*
* George Mifflin Dallas was born in the city of Philadelphia, on the 10th day
of July, 1792. The second son of Alexander J. Dallas, who occupied a distin-
guished position amo^ig the advocates that adorned the legal profession, and in
various consjncuous posts of public trust evinced an enlarged statesmanship and
a devotion to the principles and policy of the republican party — the qualities of
the sire are reflected, with remarkable fidelity, by the son. W^ell grounded in the
rudiments of his vernacular and the classic tongues in this immediate vicinity, at
the age of fourteen he became a student at Princeton college, where he soon
won the affections of his companions by the many generous and manly traits of
his character, and continued until 1810 when he was graduated with the highest
honor of his class. His parting oration, replete whh elevated sentiment and re-
fined feeUng, gave early promise of eloquence and of taste, which in his mature
years has been fully redeemed, and at the same time evinced an acquaintance
with the human character, wliich is rarely found in one so young. On leaving
the academic shades, he was registered as a student in the office of his father,
and although in the intervals of arduous and intense application, he touched oc-
casionally upon light hterature, yet he lost no time in seeking and familiarizing
himself with those principles of jurisprudence of which he became, in after years,
so able and eloquent an expounder.
Admitted to the bar about a year after the declaration of war with Great
Britain, his attention to his profession was merely nominal. The call to arms
which resounded throughout our land, was promptly responded to by him, and
he was at once uniformed and equipped for personal service in the field, but when
President Madison appointed Albert Gallatin a Commissioner to repau- to St.
Petersburgh, with the view to negotiate a peace under the auspices of the Russian
Emperor, yielding to the kind and pressing invitations that were extended to him,
he became the private and confidential Secretary of that Envoy. Visiting, as he
did, the principal countries of Europe, he had opportunities Which he embraced,
of commmghng with those master spirits who were supposed to be capable of
guidmg and governmg the world ; and when, in August, 1814, he returned to
the United States bearing the despatches from the American Commissioners at
Ghent, he brought with him an increased attachment to our repubhcan institutions
and a renewed love of country. Remaining some time in Vt'ashington to assist
in the arduous duties of the Treasures to which his father had been called, and
whose disturbed condition required the aid of superior ability to settle, he returned
to Philadelphia where he resumed or rather began the actual practice of the law.
Owing to the death of his esteemed father, which soon after occurred, he was
deprived of the benefit of his great professional assistance, and forced to throw
himself upon his own individual energies, and being appointed, in 1817. the
Deputy of the Attorney General, he displayed a skill in the management of crim-
inal cases which bespoke an intimate knowledge of that interesting branch of
jurisprudence, to which ever since he has given an occasional attention, and as
counsel of (Jovernor Findlay, whose doings were subjected to legislative investi-
gation, he exhibited a firmness, capacity and address worthy of an older mind,
and "acquired a standing in his profession which might have been envied by many
of its more practised members. Although dihgent and untiring in the pursuit of
his avocation, he was not unmindftil of those political questions which from time
to time arose.
2
18 MEMOIRS AND AUTOBIOGRAPHT
Davis, William (retired) 100,000
Dallett, Elijah > 50,000
President of the Bank of Penn Township — was for a long time one of our
largest manufacturers of soap and candles. He is an adopted citizen.
Dallett, John 100,000
Of the House of Dallett & Brothers ; doing an extensive business in the La-
guayra trade, and son of E. Dallett.
Dale, Ross & Withers 60,000
A well known mercantile firm in Market street, engaged in the silk and fancy
business.
Davis, Benjamin (Brickmaker) 50,000
Davis, Benjamin, (Merchant) " 50,000
Davidson, Nathan 100,000
Formerly in the dry goods business ; has been in various employments since ;
made his own fortune, chiefly by the purchase of improving real estate. Has
built an elegant mansion in the neighborhood of the Girard College. He married
a Miss Lane, the daughter of an iron master.
Dawson, M. L. (Brewer) 75,000
Son of the late William Dawson, brewer, was brought up to the same business
with his father. Married a Miss Poultney.
David, Jacob 100,000
' A retired merchant, who lately bought a handsome vacant lot, almost half a
square, in the district of Spring Garden, for the purpose of improvement. He is
an adopted citizen — married an American lady, and made his money here in the
dry goods business.
Davis, Edward M. 60,000
Special partner of the House of Corbit & Co., in the importing and commission
dry goods business.
Da Costa, John C. 50,000
An enterprising and correct merchant ; he married the daughter of Isaac W.
Norris.
David, Springs & Co. 50,000
A wholesale dry goods jobbing House in Market street, doing a good country
business. Mr. David is the son of Jacob David.
Davies & Watres, 50,000
Largely engaged in the distilling business at the north east corner of Pleasant
and Twelfth streets, Spring Garden. Mr. Watres is a director of the Commercial
Bank. He married a Miss Harper.
Devereux, John 50,000
An enterprising shipping merchant, and large stockholder in the Bank of Com-
merce, of which he was once a Director. Is now a Director of the Delaware
Insurance Company.
Deal, Daniel 50,000
Made his money in the dry goods business.
Denckla, Paul 75,000
A retired gentleman of fortune and ease. '
Dickson, John 100,000
Made his money in the grocery business with Levi Taylor: is the capitalist
of the House of Dickson & Co., southeast corner of Third and Market streets.
OF WEALTHY MEN. 19
Diver, Joseph 50,000
Made his money in the grocery business, and was connected or related to the
late rich Paul Beck, Jr.
Dihvorth, Charles 70 000
British agent and importer: inarried a daughter of the late John Gardiner,
merchant, by whom he received his fortune ; is a business man.
Dillingham, William H. 100,000
Came from the eastward ; is an attorney at law ; married a rich lady of Chester
county, and now resides in our city.
Dorrance, David (Estate) 50 000
Mr. D. was one of the keepers of the celebrated United States Hotel for several
years, in which business he made his money ; he came from Bristol, Pa., and was
connected with the family of the Badgers.
Douglass, Rev. Jacob M. 50 OOO
A retired clergyman ; a pious, good man, and one of the admirers of the late
Rev. Dr. Joseph Pilmore, rector of St. Paul's Church.
Douredoure, B. 50,000
An adopted citizen, in the soap and candle business, by which he made his
money ; is a correct, worthy man.
Drum, William 50,000
A victualler of Spring Garden, in which business he made his money, and in-
vested in improving real estate.
Drown, William A, 50 oOO
Drayton, Col. William (Estate) 50,000
Colonel Drayton came from the south — a citizen of some note ; was a director
of the Bank of the United States.
Dugan, Joseph (Estate) 400,000
Mr. Dugan was one of the House of Savage & Dugan, an old and respectable
shipping firm. John Savage, his partner, was an active director of the Bank of
the United States, when it was first incorporated by Congress in 1816.
Dulles, Aertson & Fisher, 75.000
Dumoutet, Miss Jane 75 qoo
Dutilh&Co.,E.G. 75'ooo
In the forwardmg business. Charles Humphreys is the partner.
Duane, William J. 75 000
Son of the late William Duane, once editor of the old Aurora. Mr. D'uane
was one of the executors to the estate of the late Stephen Girard, and by the
commissions arising out of it, added to the estate he acquired by marriage ; he
was for a short time Secretary of the United States Treasury, under President
Jackson's administration, and has been a member of our city councils. He was
brought up in his father's printing oflice, but afterwards became a lawyer in good
practise at our courts of justice.
Dulles, Joseph H. 100,000
Formerly of the House of Dulles & Wilcox, in the dry goods business in Mar-
ket street ; but is now retired. He married a Miss Peace, by whom he acquired
some property. ^
Dundas, James 700 ooo
By profession, attorney at law. President of the Commercial Bank. Married
a daughter of the rich Henry Pratt, to whose estate he is an executor. He lately
built the elegant mansion at the north eastern corner of Broad and Walnut streets
m which he resides.
20 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHT
Dutilh, Edmund G. 50,000
Of French descent — married a daughter of Charles Graff. Is a director of the
Bank of the United States, and in the forwarding and commission business in
company with Charles Humphreys.
Durand, Elias 50,000
Druggist, came from Baltimore ; a polite Frenchman, and highly respectable
citizen. Property in real estate.
Duhring, Henry 150,000
An adopted citizen — came from Germany. By strict attention to business, and
great industry, he has rapidly acquired this large fortune, from being a poor boy.
He richly deserves this reward for his labors.
Dunton, Jacob 50,000
Duponceau, Peter S. (Estate) 100,000
The deceased was one of the most learned and philosophical men of the present
century ; universally revered. He was a man of great erudition. At the time of
his death he was President of the American Philosophical Society, Historical
Society of Pennsylvania, Athenaeum, and at the head of the Law Academy of
Pennsylvania. His life and writings will form a valuable work. He was one of
the greatest linguists of the age, whose memory will live in all future time.
Duy, Lambert 50,000
Wholesale dealer in cloths, cassimeres and vestings.
Duncan, William 50,000
Formerly a member of the State Legislature ; Surveyor of the port of Philadel-
phia ; President of the Peace Society ; General of the Militia, and a good citizen.
Dunn, Nathan (Estate,) 150,000
Mr. Dunn was formerly in business with Charles French in the dry goods bus-
iness ; afterwards went to Canton, China, and there amassed a large fortune ;
became the owner of the celebrated Chinese Museum, with which he travelled to
London and other parts of Europe. He was a native of New Jersey, and died a
benefactor to several public institutions of our country.
Duval, James S. (Estate,) 200,000
Earp & Young, 50,000
Earp, Robert 100,000
Earp, Thomas 75,000
Earp, George 75,000
Three brothers, who made their money in the hardware business, in company
with Charles Bird, with whom they were brought up to business, more than twenty
years ago. They are all business men, shrewd, intelligent and of good standing.
Eckfeldt, Adam 50,000
For a long time chief coiner of the United States' Mint, and now has several
sons engaged in said institution, and Mr. E. himself, from habit, attends almost
every day to see that things go on right in Uncle Sam's work shop.
Eckstein, John 50,000
Formerly in business with Benjamin Taylor ; he is an industrious mechanic ;
made his money in the brush-making business, and by the purchase of real estate.
Eckels, Spangler & Ruiguel 100,000
Egner, Charles 50,000
Mr. Egner made his money in the grocery, liquor, and distilling business, and
has retired from it and built himself an elegant mansion on the banks of the Del-
aware, not far from Wilmington.
OF WEALTHY MEN. 21
Eisenbrey, Jr., John 50,000
Ely, Mrs. Ann (widow) 50,000
Elliott, Isaac 50,000
Conveyancer ; in which business he made his money ; has been a member of
City Councils, and filled other stations of honor and trust.
Ely, John (corner of Spruce and Tenth streets) 75,000
Retired from all business ; an ©Id fashioned regular merchant, who made his
money by vigilant industry.
Elmslie, Alexander 70,000
A retired gentleman ; a native of Philadelphia ; made his money in the com-
mercial hne, and invested it in good real estate, bonds and mortgages.
Elkin, Abraham 50,000
Elliott, John 50,000
Belongs to the Society of Friends ; made his money in the drug and paint
business ; now retired and happy.
EUmaker, Mrs. H. 50,000
Widow of Levi Ellmaker, who left his property in good real estate.
Emlen, George 50,000
A Philadelphian ; once visited Europe on business for the great banker, David
Parrish, who was connected with the House of Hope & Co., Amsterdam. Mr.
E. is a gentleman of high standing ; has been a senator in our State Legislature
from the city proper ; was never married.
Emerick, Peter K. (Estate) 50,000
Eneu, Senr., James 60,000
A retired old gentleman, living in the plainest manner ; the owner of a large
amount of real estate in the lower part of the county. His sons and grand-sons
have been members of our State Legislatures.
Eppelsheimer, Lewis (Estate) 50,000
Erwin, Mrs. Ann (Widow) 50,000
Esher, J. & VV. 50,000
Esherick, George 75,000
Esherick, Joseph 60,000
Etting & Brother, E. J. 75,000
Iron merchants of good standing, and sons of the late Reuben Etting, who mar-
ried a Miss Gratz, sister of Hyman, Jacob and Joseph Gratz.
Evans, Cadwalader (Estate) 200,000
Everly, William A. ^ 50,000
A son of Adam Everly, and formerly in business with the late B. Reese, under
the firm of Everly & Reese, in the comb and variety business.
Evans, Dr. Charles 100,000
Son of the late Griffith Evans, and worth this sum, at least, from liis father's
estate.
Everly, Adam, 300,000
Made his money in the comb and fancy business, and by fortunate hits m the
purchase of real estate. Mr. Everly was the first to introduce into the United
States, combs made of horn in imitation of shell, and for sonic time was the only
one in the business in the city. He may, therefore, be called the founder of the
trade. He is a shrewd business man of very respectable standing.
22 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGBAPHY
Evans, Griffith (Estate) 300,000
Evans, Joseph R. 500,000
One of our most upright merchants. A native of Philatlelphia, ami most
higlily respected. He was formerly in business with Mr. Maris, under the firm
of Maris & Evans. Mr. E. is well known in Europe, and receives consignments
from the most respectable shipping merchants residing there.
Evans, Jr. , Joseph R. 50,000
Son of our esteemed fellow citizen, Joseph R. Evans, Senr., a wealthy mer-
chant. Related by marriage to Dr. Horner ; engaged in the commission business.
Ewing, John 0. 50,000
Now retired ; made his money in the plumbing business ; having been engaged
in that capacity by the city authorities, for a number of years. He is somehow
connected with the Sergeant family.
Ewino;, Henry (Estate) 75,000
A broker from Nashville, Tennessee, and was agent for the banks of that place
in this city. Mr. E. studied law in the office of the late Hon. Felix Grundy,
with President James K. Polk, and married a daughter of Mr. Grundy, by whom
he obtained part of his fortune. His widow, Mrs. Ewing, is on very intimate
terms with Mrs. President Polk.
Eyre, Manuel (Estate) 50,000
Mr. Eyre was formerly in business with Charles Massey, under the firm of
Eyre & Massey, and were at one time largely engaged in the shipping line. He
was at one time Director of the Bank of the United States, and a member of our
City Councils. He married a daughter of one of our first and most eminent city
auctioneers.
Eyre, Abraham P. 65,000
Farr, John 50,000
An Englishman by birth ; a vestryman and warden of St. Paul's church. Made
his money by the manufacture of drugs, in which business he is still largely en-
gaged. He was formerly in business with a Mr. Kunzi, a German chemist.
Farr, John C. 50,000
Merchant and dealer in fancy goods, Chesnut street ; an upright and respected
citizen ; also, an importer.
Fales, Gcorjre 75,000
Came from Boston — formerly in busuaess with a Mr. B. Cheerer — under the
firm of Cheerer & Fales ; has a rich brother in Boston by the name of Samuel.
Made some money in the dry goods and conmiission business, but acquired the
most of his fortune by marrying the daughter of Captain Lewis Rush, deceased.
Fallon, Christopher 75,000
Born in Portugal of English parents ; a talented and worthy member of the bar
with a large practice, doing business in company with his brother, J. Fallon.
Farnum, Henry 75,000
Fassitt, James 250,000
Came from the eastern shore, Maryland, and was brought up by James Stokes
in the auction jobbing business, at the south western corner of Front and Market
streets. Made this large fortune without a cent of capital, but a large portion of
industry and perseverance ; he is now entirely retired firom business.
Fassitt, T. S. R. 100,000
Married the daughter of the late Thomas Fassitt ; retired from all business, and
enjoys life ; is fond of horses, dogs and hunting. Property in real estate.
OF WEALTHY MEN. 28
Fassit, Tliomas (Estate) 250,000
Farnum, John 100,000
FassilL & Longstreth, 100,000
Wholesale hardware and cutlery merchants, doing a profitable business in
Market street.
Farquhar, Mrs. Eliza 75,000
Residing in Chestnut street, west of Broad ; widow of a Jamaica planter, and
is a connection of the Wetherill family.
Farnum, Paul 50,000
Merchant, and director of the Farmer's and Mechanic's Bank ; came from the
eastward.
Fearon, James (Estate) 50,000
Soap and candle meinufacturer, in which business he made his money in the
lower part of the city. Formerly a member of the Common Council. An Irish-
man by birth. Lately deceased.
Fellovves, C. 100,000
A citizen retired upon his fortune ; he came from the south.
Fell, Jonathan (Estate) 50,000
Ferguson, Alexander (Estate) 50,000
Filler, Daniel 50,000
By trade a victualler. Once high sheriff of the city and county of Philadelphia ;
by the fees of which office it is generally supposed he made this fortune.
Firth, Thomas 125,000
Formerly in business with J. C. Jones and Richard Oakford, under the firm of
Jones, Firth & Co., at one time very extensively engaged in the Canton and Cal-
cutta trade. He came from New Jer.scy ; a diiTctor or manager of the Schuylkill
Navigation Company.
Fisher, Coleman 70,000
Son of the late Samuel W. Fisher, one of our most eminent and respected fel-
low citizens. Mr. F. resides at a beautiful country seat near Germantown.
Field, Fobes & Co. 50,000
Fisher, Mrs. Mary P. 125,000
Widow of the late W. W. Fisher.
Fisher, Mrs. Sarah 100,000
Widow of the late Samuel W. Fisher, residing in Chestnut street.
Fine, Henry INI. 50,000
A retired merchant ; son-in-law of the late Captain Gurney, of the old firm of
Gurney «fe Smith, who were engaged in the Canton trade some thirty years ago.
Fleming & Buzby, 50,000
Flickinger, Isaac 50,000
Florence, William 150,000
A respectable Hebrew — born in this city, but made his money in New Orleans.
He married a Miss Seixas, sister of David G. Seixas, formerly teacher of the deaf
and dumb in this city. He is a most estimable citizen, and resides in Girard
Row, Chestnut street.
Flvience, Jacob I. 500,000
Brother to the above, born here, and also made the chief of his large fortune in
New Orleans. He married a Miss Levy, of the W^est Indies, and resides in the
house owned by the estate of the late Benjamin C. Wilcox, 11th and Walnut sts.
24 MFMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
Fling, William R. 50,000
By trade a cabinet maker ; at one time a member of our State Legislature ;
made his money by his trade, and in the purchase of real estate.
Fleming, Robert (Estate) 600,000
Ford, John 50,000
Formerly of the House of Roland & Ford, wholesale grocers. He manied the
daughter of the late Guy Bryan, by whom he received a fortune ; now retired.
Fontanges, P. F. 50,000
A retired merchant ; formerly of the old House of Ch apron, Frenaye & Co.;
made most of his money in the Mexican trade. A Frenchman by birth, who has
always refused to become naturalized. He has a sister married to Robt. Sykes, Esq.
Folwell, William 50,000
A Philadelphian, belongmg to the Society of Friends, who made his money in
the auction and commission business.
Ford, John M. 50,000
Importer of saddlery hardware, doing an extensive and profitable business.
Forrest, Edwin 150,000
We claim this distinguished tragedian as a Philadelphian. He was born among
us ; was a poor boy ; and made his fortune. He married a daughter of Mr. Sin-
clair, the English vocalist. Mr. Forrest has wisely invested a large portion of his
funds in real estate, in several States of the union. He has two sisters living in
this city. His father was runner to the first bank of the United States, and was
a good officer.
Fotterall, Mrs. S. 100,000
Fotterall, William F. 100,000
Fotterall, Slephen G-, 100,000
The above three individuals are all living retired, having amassed fortunes
several years since. William F. is the owner of a large amount of valuable real
estate in the most desirable parts of the city. His mansion at the north west cor-
ner of Chestnut and Thirteenth streets, is said to be one of the finest finished
houses in Philadelphia. The Fotteralls were always famous for buying and
keeping corner properties.
Forten, James (Estate) 50,000
A native of Philadelphia, and a singular instance of a colored man rising to for-
tune and respect, by sheer industry and correct deportment ; he made his money
in the sail-making business, and died much lamented. He was a man of integrity
and genuine politeness.
Freed, Ward & Freed, 50,000
Wholesale and retail flour factors, doing an active and profitable business in
Market street near Broad. The Freeds are sons of David Freed.
Freeman, Henrj' G. 75,000
Son of T. B. Freeman, deceased. Made his own money — was a notary public
for many years. A respectable, high minded gentleman. Is by profession an
attorney at law, but now somewhat retired, and resides in an elegant mansion he
built in West Philadelphia.
Freed, David 75,000
A retired flour factor ; a shrewd man of business, with his property invested in
bonds, mortgages, and real estate.
Frazer, John F. 100,000
Francis, Field & Francis, 75,000
Manufacturers and importers, doing a large and profitable business. Here is
OF WEALTHY MEN.
25
another instance of the effects of industry, enterprise and application to business :
we record with pleasure fortunes thus made. They are all adopted citizens.
Frenaye, Mark Anthony 50,000
Formerly of the House of Chapron, Frenaye & Co., silk merchants. By birth
a Frenchman— now retired from all business, and lives in the Bishop's house of
St. John's church, having given all his worldly goods to farther the cause of reli-
gion. He is a sincere christian, a meek citizen, and a man of great integrity and
worth, much esteemed by all his countrymen.
Fraley, Mrs. R. W. (Widow) 75,000
Frank, Christian 50,000
Of German extraction — a worthy citizen, and made his own money.
Fraley, John U. 50,000
One of our oldest citizens. He made his money in the baking business, in
Church alley, some thirty years ago.
Francis, Charles (Estate) 50,000
Fullerton, Alexander 75,000
Retired from business to live upon his fortune ; son of the late Alexander Ful-
lerton, merchant, from whose estate he received some property — married a Miss
Sheepshanks, with whom he obtained considerable wealth, but made the principal
part of his estate in the wholesale and retail drug business in Market street.
Furness, James T. 75,000
Made his money in the auction business, as one of the firm of Thomas, Furness
& Co., North Second street.
Gaskill, Benjamin 50,000
Made his money in the book-bindmg business by great assiduity.
Garrison, John 50,000
A rich man with no children ; came from New Jersey ; was in partnership with
his brother-in-law, E. Van Syckle, in the wholesale distilling business.
Gaul, Frederick, Senr., (Estate) 75,000
Mr. Gaul made his money in the brewing business with Caspar W. Morris,
under the firm of Morris & Gaul.
Geyer, William B. 75,000
Son of John Geyer, baker ; served his time with Samuel Story, to the currying
business. Married a Miss Herman, by whom he acquired a fortune ; is still en-
gaged in the leather and currying business.
Geisse, William 75,000
An enterprising and respectable German merchant, who made his own money
by importations from Germany and elsewhere.
Geisse, George W. 50,000
A gentlemanly adopted citizen, and wholesale importing merchant.
Get,hin,John 50,000
A Director of the Schuylkill Bank, (an adopted citizen,) otherwise retired from
all business.
Gest, John 50,000
Register of Wills under the administration of Governor Ritner ; owns consider-
able real estate ; came from Lanca«ter county, and is a good and worthy citizen.
Gill, William 75,000
Formerly an auctioneer in partnership with George Thomas and John B.
Myers ; now retired from all busuiess.
26 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
Gihon & Co., John 200,000
Large importers from New York and England.
Gilpin, Henry D. 80,000
Attorney at law, and son of the late Joshua Gilpin ; is a citizen of some emi-
nence, and has been honored with several important stations, among them Attor-
ney General of the United States ; married the widow of a late distinguished son
of Louisiana, Hon. U. S. Johnston. Mr. Gilpin is a fine writer and an erudite
scholar, and contributes to several periodicals, and among them, to the Democratic
Magazine.
Gibson, John 50,000
Gilbert, Frederick (Estate) 100,000
Mr. Gilbert was very fortunate in the dry goods business ; was once concerned
with a Mr. Grambo, under the firm of Gilbert & Grambo.
Gibson, James 50,000
Attorney at law, now retired ; property well secured in real estate.
Gill, John (Estate) 50,000
Mr. G. came from Baltimore; was a successful merchant in the dry goods busi-
ness, as one of the firm of Gill, Ferguson & Co.
Gibson, Dr. William 75,000
Is a professor of surgery in the University of Pennsylvania ; with a yearly in-
come of §5000 therefrom. Originally came from Baltimore. He possesses a fine
taste for good horses, and is a perfect gentleman.
Girard, Stephen (Estate) 7,000,000
Originally about seven millions of dollars in amount — now much reduced by
the great expense of the college, and the loss in the Bank United States and other
stocks, which were not sold at the death of this great public benefactor, a brief of
whose life we append. (Xj^See Appendix.
Glentvvorth, Dr. George P. 75,000
A Philadelphian. Owns coal lands — also, a handsome country seat in the neigh-
borhood of the city, besides real estate in the city. Is in the retail drug business.
Goddard & Parker, 50,000
In the grocery and commission business. Robert Toland is the special partner.
Godley & Co., Jesse 50,000
Godey, Lewis A. 50,000
Made his own money by publishing the Lady's Book ; another instance of suc-
cess, with those who endeavor to cater for and please the ladies.
Goddard, Dr. Paul B. 80,000
Son of John Goddard, and grand-son of Paul Beck, Jr., from the last of whom
he received his fortune ; he resides in a splendid mansion, in Race near Thirteenth
street, and is an accomplished gentleman and erudite scholar.
Gorgas, S. G. 60,000
Gowan, James 150,000
An adopted citizen. Made the bulk of his money in the liquor business ; was
at one time an active politician and defeated in a contest for a seat in congress in
the First District ; is now one of the best agriculturists in the state, and has a
splendid farm in the vicinity of Germantown ; is celebrated for his fine cattle.
Goodman, John 50,000
An ancient citizen of the Northern Liberties ; once a magistrate, justice of the
peace, and notary public ; made his money after a long series of years devoted to
his vocation. Property chiefly in real estate.
OF WEALTHY MEN. 27
Goldey, Lewis 75,000
Graff, Frederick 50,000
Brother of Charles Graff. Married a Miss Swoyer of Gerniantown ; city su-
perintendent of the Schuylkill Fair Mount Wder Works, ever since their first
establishment ; his property is in real estate, and bonds and mortgages ; he is a
respectable and worthy citizen.
Grover, Thomas D. 125,000
Has risen to his present wealthy and honorable position from the humble occu-
pation of a wharf builder ; he has been elected to numerous ofiices of honor and
trust ; was chosen the year before last a member of the board of county commis-
sioners by the Native American party ; commenced life almost pennyless, and
without education, and amassed his fortune by untiring industry ; the district of
Southwark is largely indebted to Mr. G. for his liberality, and the poor have found
in him a generous friend.
Gralz, Hyman 75,000
President of the Pennsylvania company for insurance on lives and gi-anting
annuities ; a respectable Hebrew ; formerly in the mercantile business, now de-
voted to the business and interests of this institution.
la z, osep ) J Brothers of the above H. Gratz. \ ,^' ^^
Gratz, Jacob 5 ( 50,000
Grant, Samuel 100.000
Of the old House of Grant & Stone ; a New England merchant — a plodding,
straight forward trader, who has passed safely through all the changes of trade
and currency for the last thirty years.
Groves, Daniel 50,000
A retired mechanic, who did a great deal of public work ; was once a State
Senator from the county of Philadelphia, now living at his ease upon the fruits of
his own industry.
Graff, Charles (Estate) 150,000
This gentleman has attended to no business since his marriage, save that of a
bank director, or a common councilman ; he married a lady of large fortune. He
died recently.
Grove, Henry 50,000
A worthy, honest man, who made his own money by industry and economy.
Grim, Peter 75,000
Made his money in the brick-making business, and is an industrious worthy
citizen.
Greenfield, Mrs. Elizabeth (Widow)— (Estate) 100,000
Grundy, Edmund 50,000
Gray, Robert E. 75,000
Married a Mrs. Scott, who was once a Mrs. Shcaff, and before that a great belle
of our city. Mr. G. was brought up to, and now is in the brewing business.
Greiner, Willi aiTi S 50,000
In the cotton and commission shipping business. A Philadclphian, and son of
the late John Greiner, merchant.
Gumbes, Mrs. Rebecca 100.000
Widow — daughter of the late Samuel Wethcrill, .Tr.
Grigg & Elliott, 400.000
Extensive wholesale booksellers and publishers. John Grigg came from the
eastward ; married a lady of New England, and is a shrewd business man who
made his fortune here.
28 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
Harding, Jr., John 150,000
Wholesale grocer, once a poor boy ; made his own money, and deserves credit
for his industry and perseverance.
Harbert, Isaac 50,000
A well known bricklayer by trade ; made his own money by his business, and
in the purchase of improving real estate. Property in real estate and bank stocks.
Harbert & Davis, 50,000
Lumber merchants, doing a good business ; shrewd, deserving men of active
habits. Property in real estate ; Philadelphians by birth.
Harrison, George (Estate) 300,000
Was a director of the first Bank United States, incorporated in 1791 by Con-
gress. For a long series of years navy agent of Philadelphia, under several ad-
ministrations of the general government.
Hart, Tiiomas 150,000
Hart, William H. 150,000
Harland, John 100,000
A widower, retired from all business : He married the widow of the late Samuel
Eldridge by whom he acquired a portion of his fortune. He has a handsome
residence in Germantown, besides one in the city.
Hallowell, William S. 50,000
In the hardware and cutlery business ; a member of the Society of Friends ;
married two daughters of the late Thomas Phipps, by whom he acquired the most
of his fortune.
Handy, George 50,000
Formerly in the hardware business — and now has two brothers in the same
trade with William Buehler. Mr. H. is a native of the eastern shore of Maryland,
was brought up by Mr. Charles Bird, and is a man of active business habits.
Harvey, Isaac 100,000
Formerly a partner in business with the rich Paul Beck, Jr., deceased, who
married his sister. Mr. H. lives in much style and comfort in his own house in
Chestnut near Twelfth street ; he owns considerable real estate in the district of
Moyamcnsing.
Hacker, Isaiah 150,000
Came from New England in quite moderate circumstances ; belongs to the
Society of Friends, and made the chief of his large fortune in a very few years.
Hacker, Isaac 100,000
A brother to the above, who came from New England soon after Isaiah, and
succeeded in his efforts to acquire a fortune.
Hacker, Jeremiah 100,000
Also a brother of Isaiah, and also a follower of the footsteps of fortune.
Hacker, William E. 100,000
Also a brother, and a favorite of fortune.
Hartshorne, Dr. Joseph 100,000
An eminent physician of great practice, and reasonable charges ; owner of val-
uable real estate in the city and county ; in the purchase of which he made some
lucky hits.
Harley, Francis 50,000
Haseltine, John 100,000
Came from New England, and made his own money in the boot, shoe and
bonnet business.
OF WEALTHY MEN. 29
Hazlehurst, Isaac 75,000
Is a lawyer of standing, and has been a representative from the city in the state
legislature ; is a director in the Pennsylvania Fire Insurance Company ; he is
generally esteemed for his excellent qualities ; is related by marriage to the Ash-
hurst family.
Haines, Samuel 50,000
For a long time city surveyor, with a good opportunity to increase his riches by
the purchase of improving real estate. He is a worthy and respectable citizen.
Hare, Dr. Robert 250,000
Is one of the professors in the University of Pennsylvania, celebrated in the art
of chemistry ; is a great genius. He obtained the chief of his fortune by marriage,
and is from one of the ancient and most respectable families of Philadelphia.
Hart, J. H. & W. B. 50,000
Sons of Thomas Hart, in the wholesale grocery business in N. Third street.
Halloweli & Co., M. L. 50,000
Silk merchants ; the senior partner received some property by marriage.
Hansell, William M. 50,000
Made his money in company with George and Joseph Esherick in the dry
goods business, and deserves much credit for his success in life.
Hazlehurst, Samuel 100,000
Married a fortune and retired from all commercial business.
Harman, Jacob 50,000
By industry and economy amassed the above sum, which is principally in-
vested in real estate.
Hall, Rev. Richard 50,000
A clergyman of the Protestant Episcopal church ; when a youth undertook to
learn the watch-making business with Benjamin and Ellis Clark, but afterwards
took to the study of divinity.
Harris, Gebhard 50,000
By birth a German. Originally a cabinet maker ; has made his money princi-
pally in speculation, a rather uncertain way generally.
Hammersley, George 50,000
Hart, A. 150,000
Of the firm of Carey & Hart, booksellers and publishers.
Hand, James C. 50,000
A director of the Bank of North America, formerly with David W. Prescott,
now in a large business and making money ; married a daughter of James Martin.
Hemphill, Mrs. Antoinetta 60,000
This sum was bequeathed by Stephen Girard to his niece, Mrs. Hemphill, the
wife of John Hemphill, at one time a merchant in extensive business and enjoy-
ing a good credit. " Fifty thousand dollars," however, of this sum is left to be
" paid over to a trustee or trustees, to be appointed by his executors, which trustee
or trustees shall place and continue the said sum of fifty thousand dollars upon
good security, and pay the interest and dividends thereof, as they shall from time
to time accrue, to his said niece for her separate use during the term of licr life,
and fi-om, and immediately after her decease, to pay and distribute the caj)ital to
and among such of her children and the issue of deceased children, and in such
parts and shares as she the said Antoinetta, by any instrument under her hand
and seal, executed in the presence of at least two credible witnesses, shall direct
and appoint, and for default of such appointment, then to and among the said
children and issue of deceased children in equal shares, such issue of deceased
30 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
children, if more than one, to take only the share which their deceased parent
would have taken if living."
Hewson, Dr. T. M. 100,000
An eminent physician of long standing : married a Miss Cox, by whom he
added to his fortune.
Henry, Alexander 500,000
An adopted citizen, who came to Philadelphia pennyless. A most estimable
man — beloved for his philanthrophy and benevolence of heart. Formerly an ex-
tensive importing merchant and British agent, but now retired from all business.
Is at the head of several useful institutions. The Rev. John Chambers married a
daughter of Mr. H. who was the widow of the late Silas E. Weir, auctioneer.
Hembel, William 75,000
An old, retired and respected importer of dry goods, from England ; a member
of the Humane and Philosophical Society of Philadelphia.
Henderson, George 50,000
A fortunate wholesale hatter, who made his own money and is very deserving.
Heald, Woodward & Co., 100,000
A large tobacco establishment ; men of great business habits, driving a capital
trade.
Heyl, John 100,000
A retired brush maker, in which he made his money ; property in good real
estate.
Hertzog, Mrs. Peter 75,000
V/idow of the late Peter Hertzog, who made his money in the sugar refining
business.
Henrion, S. 100,000
A gentlemanly Frenchman, who made his money in the fancy and fine con-
fectionary business in Market street.
Heylin, Dr. R. 50,000
A respectable and worthy citizen, who made his own money chiefly by export-
ing genseng to China ; came to this city a poor boy, and prides himself upon his
success in life. His first outset in life was on board of an East Indiaman, as
physician for the voyage.
Hess, John (Estate) 50,000
Heiss, William 50,000
Heberton, Mrs. Ann 50,000
Hewitt, Thomas (Estate) 50,000
Hildebuni, Samuel 100,000
Formerly importer of watches, &c., by which he made his money ; is an esti-
mable man and good citizen.
Hill, James 50,000
An industrious hatter, who made his own money by strict attention to business.
Hildeburn, Son & Co., Samuel 150,000
Hillborn, Cyrus 100,000
An unassuming citizen, belonging to the Society of Friends, who made his
money by importing British dry goods.
HieskiU, Hoskins&Co., 100,000
Wholesale dry goods merchants of good standing.
Houston & Co., Churchhill 50,000
OF WEALTHY MEN. 31
Hockley, John 50,000
At present cashier of the Bank of North America, in which institution he was
for some years a clerk. He is a man of good business habits and correct moral
deportment.
Howell & Brothers, 50,000
Howell, William T., & Co. 75,000
Wholesale hardware merchants. Mr. H. is the active partner, and is a shrewd,
enterprising business man of great tact and talent.
Hoeckley, Frederick 50,000
A retired merchant ; married a Miss Herman, by whom he acquired a consider-
able portion of his fortune.
Horner, Dr. William E. 50,000
One of the skilftil professors of the University of Pennsylvania. He married a
Miss Welsh, the daughter of John Welsh, merchant.
Horn, Henry 80,000
Far a long time in the hardware saddlery business with the late Christian
Kneas, under the firm of Horn & Kneas. Mr. Horn is a sound and consistent
democrat, the architect of his own fortune, and of respectable standing in society.
He was lately appointed collector of this port of entry by President Polk, but re-
jected by the United States Senate.
Hoiahan, Amos 60,000
Was for a long time one of the hands in the United States Mint, afterwards
kept a public house, and by great industry amassed a fortune. He owns con-
siderable valuable real estate in the city proper, and is much respected.
Ho2;an & Thompson, 75,000
Extensive publishers and stationers. Have a House in New Orleans.
Howell & Co., Joseph 50,000
Sons of the late Arthur Howell, a preacher among the Society of Friends ; in
the leather and currying business.
Hoopes, T. P. 50,000
In the hardware business — was a large stockholder in the Girard Bank, and
other money stocks ; is a respectable and shrewd merchant.
Holmes, John (Estate) 100,000
Hortsman, William H. 100,000
An adopted citizen ; much respected ; keeps the large and handsome military
store, in North Third street near Mulberry.
Hollingshead, Hugh F. (Estate) 50,000
Hoopes, Wolfe & Baker, 75,000
Wholesale hardware and cutlery merchants ; strict business men, doing a capi-
tal trade.
Hulme, Thomas 150,000
A retired gentleman ; an Englishman by birth, who came to this country more
than twenty years ago. He made the chief of his money by saving-labor mr.chinc-
ry in England, previous to the troubles caused by the great improvement in its
invention ; he is an ardent friend of American manufactures, and although retired
from all business, takes great pleasure in arguing in favor and support of promo-
tion, protection and success of the American arts.
Hutchinson, B. P. 50,000
One of our largo stock brokers ; was brought up with the late (Jcorge Taylor,
who was engaged in the same business ; he is a son of the rich M. Hutchinson,
gentleman.
32 MEMOIRS AND AUTO- BIOGRAPHY
Hubbell, F. W. 50,000
An eminent attorney at law from New England ; doing a large business at our
courts.
Hutchinson, James 50,000
A retired carpenter, and late President of the Board of Health.
Humphreys, Stern 50,000
Married a daughter of Matthew L. Bevan, and one of the House of Bevan &
Humphreys — extensive shipping and commission merchants.
Ingraham, Edward D. 50,000
Attorney at law, with a good practice, and a genuine wit ; a collector of rare
books, curiosities, gems, and a most pleasant and agreeable companion ; a highly
respectable citizen and a man of great erudition.
Ingersoll, Charles J. 100,000
A distinguished lawyer and politician, having long been one of the prominent
leaders of the democratic party in Pennsylvania. At present a representative in
congress of the United States from the fourth district, having been re-elected in
1844. He has occupied several honorable posts, both national and state ; and is
considered a quick and powerful debater ; is the son of the late Jared Ingersoll, an
eminent jurist of his day.
Ingersoll, Joseph R. 150,000
Brother to the above, and one of the most learned, gentlemanly, and eminent
men of the day. A sound lawyer, an eloquent orator, and a benevolent citizen.
Repeatedly honored by the voters of the city proper with a seat in congress of the
United States, and at present the able representative of the second district. He
is a warm and ardent whig ; the devoted friend of Henry Clay and a protective
tariff. Mr. I. is also a man of strict moral principles, and a zealous advocate of
Christianity. The brothers married sisters, and have often been in congress to-
gether representing the two different and prominent political parties of the coun-
try. He is one of the executors to the estate of the late Benjamin C. Wilcox,
his brother-in-law.
Ingersoll, Charles 100,000
Son of Charles Jarcd Ingersoll ; married a Miss Brown, daughter of Menertin
Brown ; a sound lawyer, liberal minded and amiable — property chiefly in real
estate.
Israel, W. P. 60,000
Merchant, married a daughter of the late Robert Wain, who was at one time
one of our most extensive shipping merchants, engaged in the Canton and Cal-
cutta trade.
Jackson, Dr. Samuel 75,000
One of the professors in the University of Pennsylvania, and a most skilful
physician, especially in cases of nervous complaints. A Philadelphian by birth,
and a most estimable and worthy citizen ; he was once engaged with his mother
in the drug and chemical business.
Janney, Dr. Benjamin S. 75,000
A fortunate purchaser of real estate, and a successful and, respectable prac-
titioner of medicine. Property chiefly in real estate.
Jayne, Dr. David 75,000
One of the most successful inventors of patent medicines in the United States,
OF WEALTHY MEN. ^
by which he is rapidly reaping a princely fortune. His name is now proverbial
throughout the whole land, and very justly, as his ingenuity has done much to
alleviate human suffering. Dr. Jayne is an upright, worthy citizen.
Jeans, Isaiah 50,000
Jenks, Joseph R. 75,000
Jenks, Watson 50,000
Married a daughter of the late Jacob Justice ; has money invested at interest ;
is a flour factor or merchant, and resides in an elegant mansion opposite to Frank-
lin Square.
Jordan, John 75,000
Jordan, Francis 75,000
Jordan, Miss 75,000
Jones, Samuel W. 100,000
Johnson, T. & J. W. 150,000
Law Booksellers, who succeeded Nicklin & Johnson.
Jones, Benjamin 50,000
Retired from all business, and the father of Benjamin Jones, Jr., who is a di-
rector of the Bank of Pennsylvania.
Jones, George W. 50,000
Formerly in partnership with Isaac Myer, in the painting and glazing business ;
now retired, having visited Europe after making his fortune.
Johnson, Robert S. 75,000
A shrewd, intelligent merchant, largely engaged in the iron business ; property
chiefly in real estate ; a director of the Commercial Bank.
Jones, Jacob P. 75,00©
Johnson, A. W. 75,000
Obtained his money by marriage, and retired from commercial business.
Johnson, Lawrence, (Type-Founder, George st.) 75,000
Justice, G. R. 50,000
Son of the late Jacob Justice — G. R. Justice was for a long time in business
with his father and amassed considerable riches thereby.
Justice, G. M. 100,000
Justice, Jacob (Estate) 250,000
Mr. J. made his own money in the hardware business, after being engaged in it
for a long series of years in Market st., and for a long while one of the few whole-
sale men in that line. His money chiefly invested in good bonds and mortgages.
Kane, John K. 75,000
Attorney General of the State under Governor Shunk ; son of the late Elisha
Kane, who came from Albany, state of New York. He married the daughter of
the late Thomas Leiper, Esq., tobacconist, from Scotland, and a staunch democrat
— a good, honest man, who came to this country early in life, and was in the re-
volution, and was a member of the first troop of City Cavalry. Mr. K. is a man
of abilities and exceedingly pleasing manners ; has been a director of the Girard
Bank. Recently appointed United States District Judge.
Kartsher, John C. 50,000
Kates, Michael 75,000
Of German extraction ; made his money by years of honest industry as a bell
hanger and silver plater, and invested it in good real estate.
3
34 MEMOIRS AND AVTO-BIOGRAPHT
Kates, William 50,000
Brother of Michael Kates ; also a bell hanger and lock-smith ; made his money
by years of industry, and invested in real estate.
Kelly, Thomas 200,000
Of the old House of Thomas and Philip Kelly, who made a large fortune
in the trunk and leather business in Market street. Philip died some years ago,
and Thomas is now retired from all trade and commerce, attending only to the
receiving of the income derived from real estate in the city proper.
Kerr, James 100,000
Made his money in the saddlery and harness business in Market street, and
invested it in good real estate.
Kennedy, John M. 50,000
In the shipping and commission business : a shrewd, intelligent merchant ; has
been a commissioner of the Northern Liberties.
Keyser, Elhanan W. 50,000
This gentleman has twice been the candidate of the Native American party,
for Mayor of the city proper ; has been largely engaged in the lumber business,
and is a man of good business habits ; property in real estate.
Keyser, Peter A. 75,000
Brother to the above, in the lumber business also, a shrewd, intelligent man.
Kessler, John (Estate) 60,000
Keith, Samuel 50,000
Formerly President of the Delaware Insurance Company ; from one of the old-
est families of our city, and a worthy man. Property in real estate.
Kennedy, James M. 60,000
Kerr & Son, 50,000
Made their money in the china and crockery business ; came to this country
poor; are Europeans by birth.
Keen, John E. 50,000
Keen, Miss Sarah 50,000
Neice of tlie late David Lennox, who was a brother to the rich Robert Len-
nox of New York.
Keating, John 75,000
A retired French gentleman.
Kite, Joseph S. 50,000
The enterprising rail-roal manager, and until lately the proprietor of several
lines of handsome omnibuses, that ran daily from the Exchange to the Girard
College, and north and south by Sixth, Eighth and Tenth streets, having sold the
.same to Jacob Peters & Co. for upwards of forty thousand dollars. The property
of Mr. K. now chiefly consists of real estate.
Kirkpatrick, David 75,000
Formerly in business with the late Timothy Abbott, in the leather and curry-
ing trade ; a director of the Bank of the Northern Liberties.
Kimball, Leonard 50,000
Secretary of the Washington Insurance Company ; a native of the state of
Connecticut, was formerly employed as a broker ; a respectable and upright citi-
zen of good business qualifications. It is said that he bears a strong likeness to
the late and celebrated Dr. Benjamin Franklin. He married many years ago the
daughter of the late Hon. Charles Smith, of Lancaster, Pa.; and by his marriage
acquired some property.
OP WEALTHY MEN. 35
King, Francis 100,000
Son of the late Daniel King.
Kirkham, William 50,000
A retired retail dry goods merchant; derived his money from his parents' estate;
is a director for the Pennsylvania Company for Insurances, &c.
Kirk, William 75,000
Retired from business ; made his fortune by hard labor in the brick making
trade.
Klett, Frederick 100,000
Came to this country poor ; is a German by birth, and nov? consul general for
Wurtemburg. He is engaged extensively in the drug business : a self-made man
and a good citizen.
Knecht, Gabriel 50,000
A German by birth ; a drover, doing a large business in the pork line ; property
consists of real estate and bank stocks; is a director of the Bank of Penn Town-
ship.
Koons, Isaac 50,000
Korn, Henry 50,000
An adopted citizen ; an Englishman by birth. Manufacturer of military goods
and horse fly nets, by which he made his money. A respectable, upright citizen.
Korckhaus, A. 100,000
An extensive importer of Swiss and German goods ; an adopted citizen.
Kohne, Mrs. E. 300,000
Widow of the late Mr. Kohne, from South Carolina, residing in Chestnut
street, in the elegant mansion built by her late husband.
Knight, Joseph 50,000
Iron and coal merchant, in which business he acquired his money ; a great
friend to the protection of American manufactures.
Kuhn, Jr., Hartman 100,000
Son of the late lamented Charles Kuhn. He lately married a daughter of his
rich uncle, Hartman Kuhn.
Kuhn, Charles (Estate) 100,000
Kuhl, Henry 100,000
Formerly cashier of the Farmers* and Mechanics' Bank, and once a clerk in
the first bank of the United States ; now retired from all business.
Kunzi, Abram 50,000
A retired manufacturing chemist, who made the most of his money originally
by the manufacture of Quinine, in business with John Farr.
Kuhn, Hartman 300,000
Son of the late Dr. Kuhn, an able physician — eminent in his day. Mr. K.
married the daughter of the late rich James Lisle, of the House of Lisle & New-
man, and is a highly respected and estimable citizen, living in elegance and style.
Lapsley, Joseph B. 100,000
S( n of the late David Lapsley ; made his money in the carpet business chiefly,
and obtained some by marriage ; now retired.
La Roche, Dr. R. 50,000
Lawrence, Mrs. M. E. 50,000
Widow of Isaac W. Lawrence ; obtained her money from her father's and hus-
band's estates.
36 MEMOIRS AND ACTO-BIOGRAPHY
Latour, John 100,000
Lajus, Paul 50,000
Made his money in the confectionery, and West India shipping business ; an
adopted citizen of respectable standing.
Langstroth, C. S. 50,000
In partnership with E. W. Keyser in the lumber business. Property in real
estate.
Lambert, Gershom W. 50,000
Formerly in business with a Mr. Johns, under the firm of Lambert & Johns in
the dry goods trade ; now retired. Property chiefly in real estate, in the district
of Spring Garden.
Landreth,D.&Munns, 50,000
Made their money as seedsmen and florists, a business in which they have long
been engaged. Are celebrated for the production of rare and handsome plants.
Lang, Jane 50,000
An industrious, persevering lady, who has made a fortune in the retail dry
goods business ; having been established for a series of years, in north Eighth
street, and keeping always a choice and well selected stock of fancy and staple
articles.
Lambert, John (Estate) 50,000
Mr. L. was a retired British agent ; an Englishman by birth. He bought the
country seat, which formerly belonged to the late Samuel Archer, on Turner's
Lane near the Ridge Road.
Lapsley, David 100,000
Son of David Lapsley, Senr., made the chief of his money in the carpet busi-
ness ; received something handsome from his father's estate, and obtained some by
marriage.
Lennig, N. (Estate) 200,000
Mr. L. made his money in the wholesale drug and chemical business.
Lennig, Frederick 150,000
Lewis, Robert M. 100,000
Married a daughter of the late John Clement Stocker, by whom he obtained
his fortune.
Lewis, Lawrence 75,000
Formerly a supercargo to the East Indies, and made some money in that busi-
ness. He also married a daughter of the late John Clement Stocker, by whom
he obtained the most of his fortune.
Lentz, John 50,000
Manufacturer of looking glasses, north Third street ; a good citizen.
Lewis, M. D., E. J. 50,000
Son of A. J. Lewis — importing merchant. Married wealthy, and lives in a
splendid mansion at the south east corner of Eleventh and Clinton streets.
Lewis, John F. 200,000
Made his money by hard work in the first instance, with Silas E. Weir and
others, in the auction business, afterwards in the Canton and shipping trade ; a
good citizen, shrewd merchant, and a prudent parent.
Lewis, Edwin M. 50,000
A son of the above, who married a Miss Steltwagon.
OF WEALTHY MEN, 37
Levy, Patrick 50,000
Distiller, Market beyond Broad street.
Lewis, M. D. 50,000
Made some of his money and obtained some by marriage. In the domestic dry
goods commission business.
Lehman, William E. 200,000
Made his own money chiefly in the wholesale and retail drug business, here
and in New Orleans. Is a brother to the present postmaster, Dr. George F. Leh-
man, also his security to the U. S. Government.
Levy, L. J. 50,000
Mr. L. made his money in the fancy dry goods business, and has the most
splendid establishment for the sale and exhibition of superior goods in Philadel-
phia. He keeps the best imported goods, and has a run of the best custom in
our city.
Lea & Blanchard, 50,000
Le Fevre, James 50,000
Formerly agent for the Union line of packets to Baltimore, before the estabUsh-
ment of steamboats and the erection of railroads ; a director of the Commercial
Bank, and a good citizen.
Leiper, Thomas (Estate) 100,000
He was the father of George G., Samuel M., and William G. Leiper, and of
Mrs. Kane and Mrs. Taylor.
Lewis, A. J. & Co. 100,000
A wholesale importing house. Mr. Lewis, the senior partner, came from Bal-
timore, and is a shrewd, intelligent merchant. They have a House in Manches-
ter, England, represented by a brother of A. J. Lewis. Mr. L. is a director of the
American Insurance Company.
Lewis, Samuel A. 50,000
Lewis, Samuel N. 60,000
Lewis, Mordecai 75,000
Formerly in the shipping business with his brother above, Samuel N.; made
their money since, in the manufacture of white lead, and by the purchase of im-
proving real estate.
Lewis, Mrs. Wharton 50,000
Lex, Charles F. 50,000
Leland, Charles 75,000
Made his money in the wholesale bonnet and shoe business ; he is a director
of the Mechanics' Bank, and a merchant in good standing.
Leamy, Mrs. Elizabeth (Widow) 50,000
Leadbeater, John 50,000
Lea, Lsaac 50,000
Leaming, J. F. 50,000
Lea, Bunker & Co. 50,000
Commission merchants, doing a good business on south wharves.
Levick, Ebenezer 50,000
Made his own money in the currying and leather business.
Leland, Amos 50,000
Merchant, Market street ; came from the eastward and made all his money here.
38 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGEAPHY
Lentz, Henry (Estate) 100,000
Leon, Dr. Joseph 50,000
Levy, Joseph 75,000
Lea, Joseph 50,000
Brother to Thomas and Isaac Lea, members of the firm of Hacker, Lea & Co.,
extensive commission merchants.
Lex, Jacob 75,000
Of a German Lutheran family ; has been engaged in the sugar refining busi-
ness, now in the grocery business with his son in Market steeet. He was care-
fully brought up in the old school by a good father ; is esteemed to possess good
business capacities. He is brother to C. F. Lex, who was formerly in the Board
of Directors of the Girard Bank.
Lelar, Henry 50,000
A useful, respectable, and prominent citizen, who made his money in the Ger-
man trade.
Lisle, John 65,000
A/espectable retired merchant and auctioneer, a man of ready wit and pleasing
manners : at one time prothonotary of the district court, under Governor Wolf's
administration and appointment.
Lippincott, Aaron S. 100,000
Made his money in the dry goods business, and is a very respectable and cor-
rect citizen.
Lincoln, E. 75,000
Livingston, Walters. 50,000
Came from New York. Married a daughter of the late James Greenleaf. He
has been a member of the legislature of this State, and of New York ; now en-
gaged in trade and commerce in this city. A great admirer of good horses, and
formerly paid some attention to the sports of the turf.
Lindsay & Blackiston, 50,000
Extensive publishers and booksellers.
Linnard, James M. 75,000
Son of the late United States Quarter Master Linnard. In the lumber busi-
ness, and a shrewd man of business ; a Philadelphian by birth. Property chiefly
in real estate.
Li nek, George 50,000
An industrious mechanic, a carpenter by trade. Made a portion of his mo-
ney and obtained considerable by marriage.
Lippincott, Joshua 50,000
Fickle fortune has restored some considerable part of Mr. L.'s former riches to
his possession ; a member of the old firms of York & Lippincott — Lippincott &
Richards; will again take his place upon the Exchange. Mr. L. has been a di-
rector of the Bank of the United States, and many other institutions; has a
daughter married to Benjamin W. Richards.
Linnard, S. B. 50,000
Linnard, T.M. 50,000
Livezey, John 100,000
A retired gentleman ; having made a fortune, as did his father before him, in
the flour and grain business.
Longstreth, Joshua 200,000
Made considerable money in the mercantile business ; was once connected in
or WEALTHY MEN. 39
trade with John Bacon ; obtained a handsome fortune by his marriage ; has an
elegant country seat in Turner's Lane, in the neighborhood of the city, where he
also has a splendid grapery.
Levering, J. S. 100,000
Made his money in the steam sugar refining business, after having reaped a
harvest of experience, in connection with Mr. Phillips in the same manufacture
some years ago. Mr. L. has the most successful establishment in this city, for
the process of refining crude sugar, and deserves credit for the state of perfection
to which he has brought the manufactured article. He owns much real estate
and enjoys good credit.
Longstreth, Morris 100,000
Although Mr. L. resides upon his farm in Montgomery county, he may well be
claimed as a Philadelphian. He came to this city a poor lad, attended well to
business, and at maturity married a daughter of the late John Cook, of the an-
cient house of Cook & Creison, dry goods merchants. He has been a candidate
for a seat in congress, and is now an associate judge of the county in which he
lives ; is a man of sterling integrity, and decidedly republican in his principles.
Lord, G. W. 75,000
An extensive book auctioneer, at the south eastern corner of Market and Deca-
tur streets. Mr. L. came from the eastward.
Longstreth & Boldin, 50,000
Mr. L. is a brother to Morris Longstreth ; the firm are wholesale dealers in
hardware, doing a good business in Market street.
Lobdell, Stetson 50,000
A retired hatter, who came from the eastward ; property chiefly in real estate.
Lower & Barron, 50,000
Hardware merchants, doing a respectable wholesale business in North Third st.
Lowber, Edward 100,000
Came from the State of Delaware, and has been very successfiil in the drug
business, by which he acquired most of his fortune, although he obtained consid-
erable by marriage.
Love, William H. 60,000
Importer of cloths, cassimeres and vestings, with a very extensive custom
among the tailors of Philadelphia. Mr. L. is an agreeable merchant to do busi-
ness with, and is generally esteemed.
Loxley, Richard 50,000
Formerly a currier, by which trade he made a fortune ; now retired. Belongs
to the Society of Friends.
Logan, William 50,000
Made his money in the business of silk dyer and printer; was one of the first
fast dyers to follow in the foot-steps of K. Pierpont.
Lowber & Wilmer, 50,000
Wholesale druggists and sellers of dye stuffs ; made their money within a few
years.
Lukens, Jonathan 50,000
Lynch, William 100,000
A retired shipping merchant ; a director of the Union Insurance Company.
Lynd, Senr., James 50,000
Made his money in the dry goods business ; is now retired.
Magee, Taber & Co. 50,000
40 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
Macalester, Mrs. Ann 100,000
Widow of the late Captain Charles Macalester, and mother of the present
Charles Macalester. Property in real estate and good stocks.
Masden, Benjamin (Estate) 50,000
Martin & Smith, 50,000
Mr. Smith is the son of Newberry Smith. The house is doing a good whole-
sale hardware business.
Magee, James 75,000
Mr. Magee was a poor boy, who served a regular apprenticeship to the saddlery
and harness business. When he became of age he was taken by the hand by
the late James Ronaldson, his friend and patron. He established a house in New
Orleans, in connection with Napoleon Kneass, his brother-in-law, besides the one
he is engaged in here under the firm of Magee, Taber & Co., of whom Michael
Magee, his brother, is also a partner. They do a large business, almost always
having contracts with the general government for some article in their line ; is a
director of the Western Bank ; he married a daughter of the late Christian
Kneass, and sister to Horn R. Kneass. He has lately had one of the new line of
omnibuses named after him, as a means of handing down to posterity his fame !
Macalester, Charles 100,000
Son of the late Captain Charles Macalester ; in the brokerage business, and
well known as an able financier.
McAllister, John 100,000
Son of a respectable Scotchman, who came to this country early in life, and
amassed a handsome fortune in the whip and cane business in Chestnut street ;
now deceased. His son, the above, married a daughter of the late William
Young, printer, by whom he acquired considerable property in the district of
Spring Garden, in the neighborhood of the old printing office, called " White Hall,"
now demolished, and its place no where to be seen !
Martin, James S. 125,000
Made his own money as a hatter, and does a flourishing business in Market
street ; owns valuable real estate in Delaware.
Mann, Daniel 150,000
One of our retired rich men, who likes to get more than six per cent, for his
money, and does not hesitate to confess it. Is a shrewd man of business for his
advanced years.
Martin, James 50,000
In the commission and domestic dry goods line. Was a director of the Bank
United States during its troubles. Was once in business with George Thomas,
under the firm of Thomas & Martin. Married a daughter of WiUiam Yardley,
who was at one time largely engaged as a flour factor.
Mayland, Jacob 125,000
Made his money in the tobacco business ; owner and proprietor of the Mayland-
ville Works near Gray's Ferry.
Magrath, Michael 50,000
Massey, Charles 75,000
Formerly a partner in business with the late Mamuel Eyre in the shipping
trade, under the firm of Eyre & Massey. Now retired ; property in real estate.
Martin, Dr. Joseph 100,000
Is retired fi-om all business, and mostly resides in the country.
Maitland, John 50,000
Maris, Mrs. Rachael R. 50,000
OF WEALTHY MEN.
41
Mallery, Garrick 100,000
Came from the eastward. At one time president judge of one of our State
Courts ; also a member of the State Legislature. Has been married three times ;
is an attorney and counsellor of good standing.
Maslin & Pepper, 100,000
Extensive hardware merchants, doing a profitable business upon a large capital.
Maris, Mrs. Sarah 50,000
Her late husband, William Maris, was at one time connected in business with
the rich Joseph R. Evans, by which he made his money.
Merrick & Tovvne, 50,000
Manufacturers of steam engines of high or low pressure, for steamboats, &c.
&c., having a large establishment in Southwark.
Meredith, William M. 100,000
An eminent jurist, and distinguished citizen ; son of the late William Meredith,
formerly president of the Schuylkill Bank ; has held an office under the state and
general government, has been a member of our state legislature, and repeatedly
chosen a member of the city councils ; is now president of the select council.
Mellon, Thomas 100,000
A respectable retired gentleman, who made his money in New Orleans, and
has settled in our city.
Mercer, Charles 50,000
Mellor, Thomas 100,000
An adopted citizen — was brought up with Joseph Brown ; made his money by
importing small wares and trimmings from England.
Mercer, Brothers & Co. 80,000
Merrefield, John G. 50,000
Nephew of the late John Guest, merchant ; made his money in the dry goods
business, and invested it in real estate ; married a Miss Williams.
Messchert, H. 400,000
Inherited his fortune from his father's estate. Has been twice married, and is
comparatively a young man.
Meigs, Dr. C. D. 60,000
Came from the south. Married a daughter of the late William Montgomery,
by whom he received the most of his fortune ; enjoys a good practice as a physi-
cian ; was brother-in-law to the late John Forsyth, who was Secretary of State
under Martin Van Buren's administration.
Mecke, Plate & Co. ? 75,000
A respectable German House of long standing — having a line of packets nin-
ning behvccn this city and Hamburg. Mr. M. married a Miss Ogden, of New
York, and greatly prides himself upon the relationship formed thereby.
Mercer, Robert 75,000
A native of Ireland, and a shoemaker by trade ; by tact and industry made con-
siderable money ; at one time was a partner of John Stell, in the auction business ;
has finally retired from all business ; in the possession of much valuable real estate.
Melizet, John 50,000
A retired merchant.
Meigs, Dr. John F. 50,000
Son of Dr. C. D. Meigs ; married a" daughter of the Hon. Charles Jared Inger-
soll, and is getting into a good practice ; is named after John Forsj'th.
Mitchell, James 100,000
42<f MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
MilHgan, Francis 50,000
A dry good.s merchant, who made his money in company with the fortunate
Nathaniel Burt.
Miller, William 50 OOO
A respectable retired jeweller, and a very gentlemanly citizen. Has sons en-
gaged in the exchange and bank note brokerage business.
Miller, D. L. 50,000
Formerly of the house of Miller, Kinsey & Cooper: he came from New
Jersey, and made his money in the wholesale and retail Dry Goods business.
Mitchell, Dr. John K. 50,000
Formerly physician to a Canton East Indiaman, and made some money by the
investments of his pay. Married the daughter of the rich Alexander Henry. Dr.
M. is a man of taste, of music and of poetry, and much esteemed for his other
good qualities.
Miller & Co., William S. 100,000
Money and Exchange Brokers ; successors to the extensive House of R. T.
Bicknell & Co., and are the sons of Mr. William Miller.
Mitcheson, Robert 50,000
An Englishman by birth ; property in real estate, and resides in a handsome
mansion in the District of Spring Garden.
Miller, Joseph 100,000
Miller, Son & Co , George 50,000
Engaged in the wholesale dry goods business, by which they have made money.
Miller, Abraham 50,000
Made his money at the potting and furnace business ; was a member of the
State Legislature during the administration of Governor Joseph Ritner ; is an
honest, respectable, and good citizen.
Mitchell, Brognard & Co. 50,000
Wholesale dealers in French, Italian and East India goods,
Morris, Samuel B. 100,000
A retired Merchant, formerly in business with Jacob S. Wain, under the firm
of Wain & Morris, who made their money in the commission and shipping
business.
Morris, Dr. Caspar W. 50,000
Son of the late Caspar W. Morris, brewer, an old and respectable family of
our city. Dr. M. is an able physician and a practitioner of some eminence.
Morris, Edward Joy 50,000
Is a lawyer of ability; comparatively a young man, but has been honored with
a seat in the State Legislature, Congress of the United States, &c., by his fellow
citizens ; an ardent whig ; has travelled through Europe and Asia.
Moss, John 300,000
Came from London, England ; made his own money here, and between here
and Eiu-ope. Has been an agent for the celebrated house of Rothchild, bankers,
London. Property in real estate. At his present advanced age, is a shrewd, in-
telUgent, and well-informed merchant, although retired from all business, except
that of attending to the collection of his income.
Molony, James 900,000
A respectable adopted citizen ; made his own money ; was once a journeyman
currier, and worked for seventy-five cents a day ; bought improving real estate
with his first means, and by its increase in value amassed most of his fortune.
Now retired.
OF WEALTHY HEN.
^
Morton, Dr. Samuel G. 50,000
Morgan, Thomas A. 50,000
Formerly in business with Chandler Price, under the firm of Price & Morgan.
He came from New Orleans, and is considered a respectable merchant of good
standing.
Moss, E. L. 50,000
Son of John Moss ; formerly in business with Michael V. Baker, under the firm
of Baker & Moss. He married an heiress of New York,
Mott & Co., James 50,000
Montgomery, Joseph 50,000
Son of the late William Montgomery; made the chief of his money in business
with his father in the shipping trade. He married a daughter of the late Keading
Howell ; is an exemplary citizen.
Morrison, William 50,000
Was brought up with the late William Dawson, brewer, and afterwards in
business with his brother-in-law, M. L. Dawson, with whom he is still connected
in the brewing business.
Morgan, Buck & Co. 50,000
Morris, Robert 50.000
Editor of the " Pennsylvania Inquirer" and for some years an officer in the
row under the administration of Governor Ritner. Mr. Morris was once a great
Jackson man. He is a citizen of excellent talents and great acquirements ; is a
fine literary writer and an experienced conductor of a daily paper. He married a
daughter of William Miller, one of our most amiable and valuable citizens.
Morris, William 50,000
A silk merchant and worthy citizen ; member of the Select Council ; was once
in the employment of Richard Ashhurst,
Musser, William 50,000
Made most of his money in business with the late John Singer, who was an
active politician in the days of 1799. Mr. M. has been an extensive dealer in
hides and leather.
Mulford, Jr. , John 50,000
Came from New Jersey ; is a persevering and industrious wholesale merchant.
Musgrave, William 50,000
Son of James Musgrave, broker ; of the firm of Wurts, Musgrave & Wurts,
wholesale dry goods merchants in Market street.
Murtha, William 50,000
An Irishman by birth, a good citizen, in the dry goods trade, who by attention
to business, frugality, and integrity, has risen to fortune and respect.
Mutter, Dr. Thomas 50,000
Married a neice of the late Richard Alsop, by whom he received considerable
property ; is a highly esteemed and respectable physician.
Myer, Isaac 50,000
Of the late firm of Myer & Jones ; is agent for the Girard estate ; made his
money chiefly in the business of painting and glazing, and by getting the public
work of the city proper.
Myers, John B. 200,000
Son of Mrs. Myers, late dry goods dealer in South Second street, and one of the
firm of Myers, Claghom & Co., wealthy and extensive auctioneers : made the
greater portion of his money in the auction business. Is a man of great business
tact, and held in high estimation.
44 MEMOIRS AND AUrO-BIOGRAPHY
McAllister & Co., 75,000
Successors to the old House of John McAllister & John McAllister, Jr. Made
their money, in part, as opticians, and in the whip and cane business.
McAllister, John 50,000
An adopted citizen of respectable standing ; is a director of the Bank of Com-
merce ; made his money, in part, by the grocery business, and in part by marriage
to a Miss Moore. Property in real estate and bank stocks.
McAlpin, James 50,000
A Scotchman by birth ; made his money in the tailoring business. Property
in real estate. Came to our city very poor.
McClelland, George W. 50,000
An adopted citizen ; made his money in the wholesale bonnet and shoe business.
McCall, Misses 50,000
McCredy, Bernard 100,000
A respectable adopted citizen, who made his money in the first instance, with
his brother, Dennis McCredy, in the wholesale grocery business, and afterwards
as a large cotton manufacturer. He has an extensive and complete manufactory,
at Norristown, Montgomery county, in this State.
McCloskey, James 50,000
Emigrated to this country from Ireland some thirty years since, and by close
attention to business with strict economy, he has secured to himself a fortune ;
by trade, a carpenter ; is a member of the Board of Moyamensing Commissioners ;
owns much real estate in that district.
McClellan, Dr. George 50,000
Came from the eastward ; is the son of a New England farmer ; he is rather
eccentric, but a most able surgeon. He married a Miss Brinton.
McCloskey, Michael 100,000
An adopted citizen of respectable standing ; now retired from business ; made
his own money by setting curbstones for the public.
McCloskey, James 75,000
Brother to the above, an Irishman by birth, and a very clever, unassuming
citizen ; made his money in the same business, and by working for the public ;
has lately built a handsome mansion at Green Hill, in the county of Pluladelphia.
McCredy, Dennis (Estate) 75,000
McEwen, Charles 50,000
A retired gentleman ; son of the late Thomas McEwen, broker, from whose
estate he received his money.
McKeen, Henry 75,000
Wholesale and retail dealer and importer of watches, movements, &c. Does a
good business in Market street, and is much respected.
McKee & Co., William 100,000
McKean, H. Pratt 300,000
Grandson of the late Governor M'Kean, and the rich Henry Pratt ; made his
money chiefly in the Canton trade.
McLanahan, Johnston 200,000
Formerly connected in busuiess with John N. Lane, of Lancaster, Pa., in some
of his western country stores. Came from the interior of the State, and became
one of the partners of the celebrated linen and shipping house of John A. Brown
& Co., with whom he made his fortune ; was a director of the Girard Bank, and
is a good business man.
OF WEALTHY MEN. 45
McMurtrie, James 50,000
Formerly in the mercantile business, now retired. Property in valuable real
estate.
Naglee, Benjamin 50,000
Naglee, John 100,000
Made his money in the lumber business, speaks Latin, &c.; is a citizen of re-
spectability and influence ; and was for some time president of the Philadelphia
and Trenton railroad company.
Nancrede, Dr. JosejDh G. 50,000
Of French extraction ; married a daughter of the late Commodore Truxton, by
whom he received some property; is an eminent physician, enjoying a good
practice.
Nathans, Isaiah (Estate) 60,000
Neff, John R. 75,000
Made most of his money in the auction business ; has been a director of some
of our city banks for the last twenty years ; married a daughter of Charles Bird,
Esq.; was at one time a member of our city councils.
Neilson, William S. 50,000
Neilson, Robert 250,000
An Irishman by birth and education ; has been one of her Majesty's privy
counsellors in the colonies ; is colonel in the British army, and repeatedly honored
with other posts of minor importance ; is esteemed for his many good qualities.
Newkirk, Matthew 100,000
This gentleman is one of the founders of the Philadelphia and Wilmington rail
road, and was for several years president of the company. Has held numerous
offices of responsibility to the satisfaction of the community ; was at one time con-
sidered possessed of a very large fortune, but lost money during the trying or
financial difficulties. Has been a liberal, philanthrophic citizen ; he married first
a daughter of the late George Heberton, and lately a Miss Smith.
Newlin, John S. 50,000
Dry goods merchant, doing a good business, and much esteemed by the public
generally.
Newman, John B. 200,000
Once a partner in business with the late rich James Lisle.
Nidelet, Stephen F. 75,000
Formerly of the old house of Chapron & Nidelet ; a Frenchman by birth ; ob-
tained his fortune by marrying the daughter of the rich General B. Prate, of Saint
Louis, Missouri.
Noble, Dr. Charles 50,000
A physician in full practice, who acquired some property from his father's
estate. Noble street, in the county of Philadelphia, is named afler his father.
Norris, Mrs. E. H. 200,000
Widow of the late Joseph P. Norris — Chesnut street. Property in improving
real estate, north of the city.
Norris, Isaac 250,000
A prominent member of the Philadelphia bar ; son of the late Joseph P. Norris ;
married a Miss Pepper.
46 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
Norris, Isaac W. 100,000
A most respectable citizen, who could have occupied a seat in Congress,
years ago, if he had consented to be a candidate for election. Made his money
in the ship chandlery business.
Odenheimer & Tennent, 75,000
One of the leading firms in Market street, engaged in the wholesale dry goods
business.
Oellers, James P. 50,000
Lieutenant in the United States navy ; obtained his money by marriage.
Ogden, John M. 60,000
At one time a member of the Legislature ; a carpenter by trade. Property in
improving real estate. A respectable citizen.
O^le & Watson, 50,000
Mr. Watson is the son of Charles C. Watson, tailor, and Mr. Ogle is the son
of the late Thomas Ogle, coach maker. The firm above is the most justly cele-
brated coach makers of our city, whose reputation for good work and materials is
well known throughout the union.
Ord, George 50,000
Retired from all business many years since ; possesses a fine Hterary taste, and
owns a splendid library.
Orne, J. & B. 100,000
Extensive dealers in carpets and carpetings ; occupy the large building in
Chesnut street, opposite the State House, owned by John J. Ridgway. Have
amassed a fortune in the regular trade in which they are engaged.
Orum & Brother, 50,000
Sons of Davis Orum, deceased. Property in merchandize and real estate, left
them by their father.
Osterheldt, Frederick (Estate) 50,000
O'Neill, Robert 50,000
A carpenter by trade ; at one time a member of the Legislature, and a director
of the late Moyamensing bank. Property in real estate and bank stocks. Of
Scotch descent, and a good citizen. Surveyor of the Peansylvania Fire Insurance
Company.
Parker, Samuel 50,000
Palethorp, John H. 50,000
A retired pewterer — property in real estate, and Western bank stocks ; was
once state bank director of the Bank of Pennsylvania. He is now sadly afflicted
with the gout.
Patterson, William C. 50,000
In business with his brother, Robert Patterson ; married a daughter of the late
Levi Ellmaker, by whom he obtained some property.
Palmer, Jonathan 50,000
A merchant of some standing.
Patterson, John 50,000
An Irishman by birth; a director of the Bank of the Northern Liberties; a
respectable citizen of good standing, in the wholesale grocery business.
Patterson, Morris 50,000
A wholesale grocer — a director of the Western Bank, and a good citizen.
Paul, J. R. (M. D.) 50,000
OF WEALTHY HEN. r47
Paul, Comegys 100,000
Formerly in the dry goods business; has a beautiful residence Spruce st, be-
sides an elegant country seat. Is very fond of books, and possesses an extensive
and valuable library.
Patten, John W. , 50,000
Palmer, Samuel 50,000
Made his money chiefly in the drug business. Is a Philadelphian by birth ;
was for a long time insi)ector of the Walnut street prison. Has been a member
of our city councils, and a bank director.
Parker, John 50,000
Paul, Joseph 100,000
Paul, Samuel W. 75,000
Parker, William 50,000
Parrish, Dr. Joseph (Estate) 60,000
Paleske, Capt. T. W. 100,000
A Philadelphian by birth ; made his money by following the sea, from which
he retired. Has lately had a fortune bequeathed him in England. Is an ex-
cellent citizen.
Parkinson, George (Estate) 50,000
Mr. P. made his money in the confectionary business.
Pancoast, Joseph C. 50,000
Property chiefly in real estate.
Paul, James W. 50,000
A member of the Philadelphia bar; and the owner of valuable real estate.
Obtained his money from his father's estate.
Patterson, Rohert 100,000
Engaged in the wholesale grocery business. Is an Irishman by birth — but
came to this country when very young. Has been a prominent actor in both
civil, political, and military aflairs. Is now Major General of Peiuisylvania Mi-
litia, First Division. Is also a director of the Philadelphia Bank.
Patterson, Dr. Robert M. 50,000
President United States Mint; son of the late Dr. Robert Patterson ; married a
daughter of the late Thomas Leipcr — been in oflfice now near ten years. A for-
tunate man, living upon the income of a fortune, and the receipts of a large sal-
ary, liives in an elegant mansion, at the south eastern corner of Locust and
Thirteenth streets.
Parry & Randolph, 50,000
Extensive lumber merchants and builders. Property in real estate. Belong
to the society of Quakers.
Peterson, Thomas 50,000
A retired gentleman, residing in the district of Spring Garden, made his money
in the early part of his life by active and persevering industry. He is the father
of C. J. and T. B. Peterson, editors and publishers — doing a flourishing business
in Chestnut street. C. J. is connected with George K. Graham.
Pendleton, William S. 50,000
Hardware merchant in Market street ; worth this sum, independent of his in-
terest in the House, of which he is a co-partner.
Penrose & Burton, 50,000
48 MEMOIRS AND AVTO-BIOGRAPHY.
Peace, Dr. Edward 50,000
Son of the late Joseph Peace. Married a Miss Willing, daughter of Eichard
Willing.
Peace, Washington 50,000
Brother to the above.
Perkins, Samuel IT. 50,000
Came from the eastward, and made his own money by the practice of the law
in this city.
Pepper, George (Estate) 3,000,000
Mr. Pepper made a fortune in the brewing business, and he also married a
lady of fortune, but he has left a much larger estate than was generally expected ,
to be divided among his family, into ten shares. He was very fortunate many
years ago, in taking, for a doubtful debt owing him by Messrs. Joshua M. and John
B. Wallace, an extensive landed property, now included in the district of Spring
Garden, which of itself would have left an independent fortune to each of his
children. One of his sons lately married a Miss Lamb, daughter of Lemuel
Lamb, and immediately set out with his lady to make the tour of Europe.
Peirce, E. J. 75,000
Once a captain of a vessel, came to Philadelphia from the eastward, and began
the umbrella business as an experiment, by which he afterwards made a fortune.
Perot, Charles 50,000
Pearsall, Robert 50,000
Perot, Francis 50,000
Perot, Joseph 50,000
Perot, William 50,000
Percival, Thomas C. 50,000
Peterman, John 50,000
Peace, Joseph (Estate) 100,000
Peters, Jacob 100,000
Made his money as mail and stage contractor ; a famous judge of horses.
Now part owner of Kite's well known line of omnibuses, that travel through our
city by night and day.
Penrose, Charles B. 75,000
One of the oldest and most respectable residents of Southwark ; owns consider-
able real estate, and some bank stocks.
Perkins, Henry 50,000
Came from New England, engaged in the book trade. An excellent citizen.
Peries, Adolphus 50,000
A connection of the late Charles Kulm — a director of the Phcenix Insurance
Company, and a highly respectable citizen, in the West India business.
Preslon, Dr. Jones (Estate,) 200,000
Property in Schuylkill Navigation and other stocks, chiefly ; part in good real
estate. The benevolent legator in favor of the " Preston Retreat."
Pratt, Henry (Estate) 1,000,000
Mr. Pratt was for a long time a distinguished shipping Merchant of Philadel-
phia. Had been a Director of the several Banks of the United States, chartered
by Congress, also, of the Commercial State Bank. Was at one time owner and
occupier, during the summer months, of the beautiful country seat, above Fair-
mount, called "Lemon Hill." Property chiefly in good and improving real estate,
which he left, as every man should, to his relations.
OF WEALTHY MEN. 49
Pechln, John 50,000
For a long time collector of taxes, and vestryman of St. Paul's church.
Pen nock, Sarah 50,000
Phillips, William (Estate,) 100,000
Inherited as well as married a fortune. Was for a long time a director of the
Philadelphia Bank.
Phipps, Stephen 50,000
Son of the late Thomas Phipps, and is a shrewd merchant in the hardware
business. His first wife was a Miss Grofl".
Physic, Dr. P. S. (Estate) 600,000
Dr. P. was for many years not only the most eminent physician of Philadel-
phia, but, perhaps, of the United States. His fame, as a man of great medical
science and surgical skill, will descend to posterity.
Physic, Emlen 100,000
Son of the late Dr. Physic. A young gentleman retired from business ; mar-
ried a daughter of the late Major William Jackson, an officer of the customs un-
der John Adams' administration.
Pickel, Casper 50,000
An adopted citizen, who made his money in the Lamp and Lamp Glass busi-
ness, both as a manufacturer and importer. Property in good real estate, and
bonds and mortgages. Has a daughter uimiarried.
Pierpont, Robert 50'000
An adopted citizen. An English silk dyer, and the first who succeeded in fast
dyeing in Philadelphia. Property chiefly in real estate.
Piatt, William 150,000
Piatt, George 150,000
Pleasonton, A. J. 100,000
Attorney at Law, and a gentleman of considerable military tactics — was on
duty during the " Southwark Riots," and received a severe wound from a can-
non shot. He recently had a handsome bequest.
Pond, Joseph 50,000
Powell, John Hare 300,000
Nephew of the late Mrs. Elizabeth Powell, from whom he received a fortune,
and §150,000 for changing his name, by act of assembly; has visited Europe ;
been a state senator, and is much respected. He married a lady of New York
now deceased.
Poulson, Z. (Estate) 50,000
He was the ancient librarian of the Philadelphia Library, and for near forty years
the editor, proprietor and publisher of the old " American Daily Jdvertiser,'"
printed for a long series of years at No. 106 Chestnut street. Mr. P. was the
father of John and Charles A. Poulson, who now survive him.
Potts & Co., William B. 50,000
Powers, Thomas H. 50,000
Once a poor boy — now a manufacturing chemist of great skill and art, in part-
nership with John Farr.
Pritchett, John 50,000
A retired merchant, possessed of improving real estate in the city proper.
Price, Calendar 50,000
Of the firm of Price, Newlin & Co., extensive hardware and cutlery mer-
chants.
50 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY.
Preston, Mrs. Jane 50,000
A lady of liberal and enlightened views — widow of the late Dr. Jonas Preston,
who endowed a retreat for widows, called " Preston Retreat," situated in Hamil-
ton street near Schuylkill Third, a beautifial marble building. Mrs, P. has also
made liberal donations towards furnishing and finishing the same.
Pritchell, T. B. 150,000
Lives retired. Property in improving real estate.
Price, Joseph (Estate) 50,000
Formerly inspector of the prison, and director of the Mechanics' Bank ; made
his money in the hatting and fur business, and afterwards invested it in real es-
tate.
Price, Richard 50,000
Son of Joseph Price, late hatter and furrier, and of the respectable house of
Siter, Price & Co. Married a daughter of Joshua Longstreth, and was a direc-
tor of the Bank United States.
Price, Chandler (Estate) 100,000
Price, Newlin & Co., 150,000
Purvis, Robert. 50,000
A colored man, son-in-law of the late James Forten, originally from the south,
retired upon his fortune, and a clever man.
Quervelle, Anthony G. 75,000
Is a native of France ; an extensive manufacturer of cabinet ware ; and has
made his money by steady industry and strict economy. Is part owner of the
Philadelphia arcade, and possesses considerable other real estate.
Quinn, Burnett 50,000
An Irishman by birth ; now engaged in the grocery business ; was in the em-
ploy of the late Captain Isaac Hozey, of Southwark, during which time the
foundation of his fortune was made. Is a respectable citizen and a good neigh-
bor.
Ralston, Robert (Estate) 800,000
Ralston & Co., A. & G. 100,000
Sons of the late Robert Ralston, importers and domestic commission merchants.
One of the firm married a lady of England, the other a Miss Boot, daughter of
Kirk Boot, Esq., merchant, of Boston.
Ralston, Henry 100,000
Son of the late Robert Ralston : retired from all business ; received his patri-
mony from his father's estate entire. Married a Miss Willing, by whom he ac-
quired considerable property. Resides in Boston now, and is an amiable, kind-
hearted gentleman.
Ramage, Adam 50,000
Known throughout the United States as the inventor of the wooden printing
press, called the " Ramage Press," which for many years was the only one in
operation ; is an ingenious mechanic, a generous and worthy citizen ; by years of
industry has amassed a fortune.
Randall, Josiah 50,000
Son of the late Matthew Randall ; married a daughter of the late Joseph Wor-
rell. Attorney at law of respectable standing, and has been a member of our
state Legislature.
Ranken, David 50,000
OF WEALTHY MEN. 51
Randolph, Richard 100,000
Made his money in company with the late Richard Milne, a very rich English-
man, (who came to this country very poor,) in the importing of British dry goods,
and as agents for houses in England.
Randolph, George F. 50,000
Made his money in the dry goods business ; is the son of the hero Randolph,
although a quaker, who fought so nobly with General Wayne, Colonel North
and others, at the battle with the British in the revolutionary war, — or rather the
massacre of the Paoli !
Randolph & Parry, 50,000
Extensive lumber merchants and contractors, engaged heavily in the building
business. Both belong to the society of friends.
Randolph, M. D., Jacob 100,000
A distinguished physician ; obtained a fortune by marriage into the family of
the late Dr. Physick. Has travelled abroad. Is a respectable citizen.
Ravvle, William 50,000
A director of the bank United States ; attorney at law. Married a daughter
of the late William Tilghman, and son of the late William Rawle, an eminent
member of the Philadelphia bar.
Rea, John 150,000
An adopted citizen ; for a number of years the proprietor of a carpet warehouse.
Owns a large amount of valuable real estate, among which is the United States
hotel, and Head's mansion house.
Read, Captain Alexander 50,000
Formerly in partnership with Mr. Gray ; made his money in the china and
crockery business ; is a very respectable and amiable citizen.
Read, George 50,000
A commodore in the United States navy. Born in Ireland, and emigrated here
when young ; was reared and educated in South Carolina. Has been in the com-
mand of several important posts, among others the Philadelphia naval station,
from which he was removed to make room for Commodore Elliott. Married a
daughter of the late Commodore Dale, who was Paul Jones' first lieutenant.
Reath, Thomas 50,000
A very respectable citizen, who made his money in the retail grocery business;
now retired. Property in real estate.
Reed, Osmon 75,000
Reed, Michael 50,000
Reese, Jacob 100,000
Reese & Heylin, 75,000
Wholesale foreign and domestic dry goods merchants, in Market street.
Reese, Brothers & Co., 100,000
An extensive importing firm of British goods.
Reeves & Co., A. R. 50,000
Reeves, Benjamin 50,000
Reeves, Biddle 75,000
Came from New Jersey. Property chiefly in real estate. Belongs to the
society of friends.
Reeves & Whi taker, 50,000
Reeves, David 50,000
52 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
Rehn, C. 50,000
Made his own money, chiefly in the vinegar business. Property in real estate,
which he bought when at a low price, in the district of Spring Garden.
Reld & Co., John 50,000
Importers of foreign goods.
Remington, W. & R. P. 75,000
Remington, Job B. 50,000
Reynolds, McFarland & Co., 100,000
Heavy dealers in dry goods, and an excellent business house.
Riehle, William, Sr., 50,000
A prosperous tanner. Property in real estate, now retired.
Richardson, John 50,000
President of the bank of North America. A shrewd intelligent citizen from
New England, who attends to the affairs of the bank with untiring zeal and in-
dustry.
Richardson, William 100,000
Made his own money in the umbrella business ; is a director or the Mechanics'
bank ; owns real estate and bank stocks.
Richards. Thomas 50,000
A wholesale and retail grocer — brother of Benjamin W. Richards, and a clever
man.
Ricketts, P. 75,000
A retired merchant, residing in Chesnut street.
Riddell, Crawford 50,000
By trade a cabinet maker ; formerly agent for the journeymen cabinet makers ;
now engaged on his own account, and established at the beautiful and extensive
warehouse, Chesnut street near Fifth, where he displays some of the handsomest
furniture made in this country.
Riddle, John S. 50,000
Came from Pittsburg, Pa.; was a director of the Girard bank ; formerly of the
house of Jackson & Riddle; married a daughter of the late John B. Wallace,
niece of the honorable Horace Binney. Mr. R. is a shrewd man of business.
Ridgvvay, Jacob (Estate) 3,500,000
(See appendix.)
Ridgvvay, Thomas 50,000
Nephew of the late Jacob Ridgway ; a manager of the Girard Life Insurance
Annuity and Trust Company of Philadelphia. Flour merchant, &c.
Ridgway, John J. 1,000,000
Son of the late Jacob Ridgway, and now worth a million. Owns a large
amount of real estate, and a good citizen. Married a daughter of Richard Willing.
Riggs, Romulus 150,000
A great business man — a dry goods jobber, from George-Town, D. C.
Ripka, Joseph 250,000
An extensive merchant and manufacturer, having large establishments at Man-
ayunk, in the county of Philadelphia. Came to this country very poor, and after
years of industry amassed his wealth.
Ripperger, C. 50,000
Riter, George W. (Estate) 50,000
Ritter, J, L. 50,000
OF WEALTHY MEN. 59
Roach, Isaac 75,000
Treasurer of tlic United States mint — appointed by President Tyler ; married
a Miss Huddell, by whom he acquired a fortune ; has been whig mayor of the
city, and select councilman.
Robb, Charles 50,000
Roberts & Co., A. S. & E. 250,000
Wholesale druggists and chemists of long standing ; brought up with the late
William Lehman ; men of business habits and great shrewdness.
Roberts, George, Chesnut street, 100,000
Roberts, Joseph 100,000
Was brought up to the printing business ; was first teller to the first bank of
the United States for many years, and afterwards cashier to Stephen Girard, de-
ceased ; one of his trustees by will to wind up the aflairs of his bank ; also, agent
for the trustees of the first bank United States. Inherited as well as made money.
Roberts, Charles (Estate) 50,000
Mr. R. was at one time a member of the Legislature ft-om the city proper ; was
a great abolitionist, and belonged to the society of Friends.
Robertson, Archibald 50,000
Robinett, McCalla & Herse, 50,000
Robinett, Allen 50,000
Robins, Thomas 50,000
Rockhill, Smith & Co., 50,000
Rockhill, Thom.Ts C. 100,000
Brought up with Silas E. Weir, his connexion, in the auction business ; after-
wards in the wholesale dry goods business with Henry Toland ; now of the firm
of Rockhill & Morris, commission merchants. Married a Miss Claypoole, and is
related by marriage to William D. Lewis, at one time cashier of the Girard
bank.
Rogers, Evans 1,000,000
Made his money in the hardware business with his brothers ; now retired.
Property in real estate, stocks, bonds, and mortgages. Is a much esteemed and
honorable citizen.
Rogers, William E. (Estate) 250,000
Mr. R. was a partner in business with Evans Rogers, and his other brothers in
the hardware line.
Rogers, Brothers & Co. 250,000
The old firm in which Evans Rogers was once concerned, in the hardware and
cutlery business, on an extensive scale in Market street.
Ronaltlson, Richard 200 000
A native of Scotland, and brother of James Ronaldson, deceased, the founder of
the beautiful cemctry in Moyamensing. Came to this country poor, and by in-
dustry at their business — type founders — eventually made large fortunes. Richard
is a good citizen, and benevolent man.
Roland, John 50,000
Ronaldson, James (Estate) 200,000
Roney,John 100,000
Brother of Thomas, now retired from all business. Property in real estate.
Roney, Thomas 50,000
A respectable citizen, still engaged in the currying business.
54 MEMOIRS AND AXITO-BIOGRAPHT
Roper, Dr. L. 75,000
Made his money in the surgeon dentist business ; was once a house carpenter,
and deserves great credit for his worthy ambition and success in Ufe. He is an
excellent citizen.
Rorer, John 50,000
Made his money as a cutler, by constant industry, and invested it in real estate.
Rosengarten, G. D. 150,000
Emigrated to this country from Germany, when about eighteen years of age, a
poor boy ; but by toil, industry, and honesty, has risen to be a citizen of wealth
and influence. Is a director of the Mechanics' bank.
Rostain, Fournier (Estate) 300,000
Mr. R. was a retired and somewhat eccentric old French gentleman, who died
lately near ninety-four years of age. He resided at the north western corner of
Fifth and Pine streets, and was well known and respected by his countrymen.
He left most of his property to his relatives in France.
Roussel, Eugene 50,000
Of Hebrew descent ; a famous perfumer and fancy soap manufacturer and im-
porter. Celebrated for selling genuine cologne water, mineral water, bear's oil,
&c. , &c. Has been most successful in pleasing the taste and fancy of the fash-
ionable part of our community.
Rowland, James 50,000
Rugan, Captain Charles 50,000
One of the trustees of the Girard bank ; in the West India shipping business,
and a respectable citizen.
Rundle, George 50,000
A Philadclphian, of English descent ; a stock broker. Mr. R. possesses good
information, but rather belongs to the days gone by ; he does not sufficiently com-
prehend the new system of financiering without money. He inherited some
years ago, by the death of his uncle, Richard Rundle, considerable property. Mr.
R. is an exceedingly particular man in all his accounts ; the dividend book of the
permanent bridge company, of which he was treasurer, is a pattern of regularity
and neatness.
Rutherford, Senr., John 50,000
A drover, by which business he made his money ; now retired.
Rush, Richard 50,000
Second son of the late venerable Dr. Benjamin Rush, one of the signers of the
Declaration of Independence ; is a statesman of great ability, — has been a minis-
ter to the court of St. James, secretary of the United States Treasury, and filled
many other trusts, — important and honorable ; was an agent of the United States
in England, relative to the Smithsonian bequest ; has a beautiful country seat in
the neighborhood of the Girard College, called after the great and celebrated
" Sydenham." Born in August, 1780.
Rush, Dr. James 1,000,000
A distinguished physician and a popular man, now worth a million. Obtained
the greater portion of his fortune by marriage, his wife being the daughter of the
late rich Jacob Ridgway.
Rush & Muhlenherg. 75,000
Steam engine builders of considerable notoriety ; now retired. Had an estab-
lishment in Hamilton street, between Fairview and Schuylkill Seventh street,
Spring Garden.
Rushton, John Y. 75,000
A wholesale dealer in china and crockery ware.
OF WEALTHY MEN. 93'
Ryan Lewis 50,000
An Irishman by birth ; made his money in the boot and shoe making business.
A director of the Western l)anl<, and now retired upon liis fortune.
Savage, John 200,000
Son of the late John Savage, of the old house of Savage & Dugan, shipping
merchants. Mr. S. Uves retired, his father having left him wrealthy. He resides
in the mansion formerly occupied by his late father, at the north western corner
of Eleventh and Spruce streets.
Sayen, George (Estate) 100,000
Scott, John M. 50,000
An exemplary and benevolent citizen, a sound lawyer, and for several years
the chief magistrate of the city. Was a member of the Reform Convention —
has been in the state Legislature, &c. Married a Miss Emlen, by whom he ac-
quired some property. Is a director of the Marine Insurance Co.
Scott, Freeman 50,000
Came from Connecticut, was once a publisher and grocer — afterwards an al-
derman appointed by the late Governor Wolf, now retired upon his fortune. Pro-
perty in real estate.
Scattergood & Whitall, 50,000
Wholesale druggists, and dealers in glass ware, doing a profitable business in
North Third street.
Scherr, E. N. 50,000
An adopted citizen ; came from Germany, and a celebrated piano forte manu-
facturer.
Scull, Gideon 75,000
Merchant, and one of the most active directors of the Bank of Pennsylvania.
Came from New Jersey, and now of the firm of Scull & Thompson, wholesale
grocers.
Schober, Frederick 50,000
Scull & Thompson, 75,000
Schleisinger & Henschen, 50,000
Wholesale dealers and importers of foreign goods. They are adopted citizens.
Scravendyke, James 50,000
Made his money principally in the soap boiling and candle business, and in-
vested in real estate.
Schafler, Charles 50,000
Nephew of the late William Lehman, frem whose estate he obtained a hand-
some legacy. Is a trustee of the " Fire Association," — was a partner of the late
Thomas Cave, in the wholesale drug business.
Seckel, Frederick 50,000
Brewer, son of one of our oldest and most respectable citizens, long since dead.
See, Brother & Co., 75,000
Seal, Joseph H. 50,000
Seeger, C. F. 50,000
Senneff, George 60,000
Made his money as a carpenter — now lives retired.
Sergeant, John 50,000
A distinguished lawyer, prominent statesman, and a leading member of the
56 MEMOIRS AND AXJTO-BIOQRAPHY
whig party. He has frequently been honored by his fellow citizens with import-
ant public trusts ; been a representative in the state and national councils ; a for-
eign minister ; a candidate for the office of Vice President in 1832, receiving forty-
nine electoral votes ; and President of the Reform Convention to revise the Con-
stitution of Pennsylvania. Mr. S. has been one of the shining lights of the coun-
try, and is the ardent friend of Henry Clay. The Honorable Henry A. Wise is
a son-in-law.
Sellers & Davis, 50,000
Sergeant, Mary 100,000
Gentlewoman — Chestnut street near Thirteenth street, occupying the elegant
mansion built by the late William Schlatter, in his palmy days, when fortune
smiled, and friends surrounded him.
Seybert, William 50,000
Son of the late Dr. Adam Seybert, once a member of Congress from the coun-
ty of Philadelphia. Property in improving real estate.
Sheppard, Catharine (Estate) 50,000
Shuster, Peter 50,000
Victualler, of Spring Garden. Property in good real estate.
Sheaff, John D. 200,000
Inherited his money — of German descent ; was worth a larger sum of money,
but lost by bank and state stocks. Property now in good real estate, and bonds
and mortgages.
Sharpless, Townsend 75,000
Son of the late Jesse Sharpless. Made considerable money in the dry goods
business, acquired some by marriage, and is now possessed of a fortune. Is the
owner of some valuable real estate.
Sharpless, Joseph J. 75,000
Brother of Townsend. Formerly in the dry goods and Canton matting trade ;
now retired, with his money invested in good real estate.
Sheaff, George 300,000
Formerly in the wine and liquor business, now a gentleman farmer of large
fortune ; owner of much valuable real estate.
Sharp, Joseph 50,000
Brother of John Sharp ; in the dry goods business, came from England, a wor-
thy good citizen of the Quaker persuasion.
Shivers, Thomas ' 50,000
Short, William 200,000
A retired old fashioned gentleman, at one time in the diplomatic corps of the
nation.
Shields, Thomas (Estate) 100,000
Shaw, Charles 50,000
Made his money as a collector of debts and rents, and as an agent for owners
of real estate. Is indeed a self-made man, and now occupies the house in which
the late Nicholis Biddle resided, and which he owns.
Sharpless, M. D., John T. 50,000
Son of Jesse, and brother of Townsend and Joseph J. Sharpless. Has visited
Europe, and now enjoys a good medical practice.
Shinnick, Lewis 50,000
Made his money in the brick making business; is a shrewd industrious citizen,
residing in Coates street.
OP WEALTHY MEN. 57
Sharp, John 200,000
Formerly in business with Edward Wilson, in importing goods from England.
Is an intelligent, shrewd, and well-informed merchant, and. has been very fortu-
nate in ni;iking good investments in real estate. Is an Englishman by birth.
Sharp, Joseph L. 50,000
Sheridan, Owen 50,000
Rose from a very humble station in life to be an owner and keeper of a livery
stable, made some money, and acquired the largest portion of his estate by mar-
riage. Owns a highly cultivated farm at Chestnut Hill ; is a member of our city
councils, and a director of the Schuylkill Bank.
Shepperd, Richard T. 50,000
The proprietor of the most extensive tailoring, and ready made clothing estab-
lishment in the city. By close attention to business has made his own money.
Shields, Robert, (Estate) 300,000
A retired old gentleman, the owner of much valuable real estate, lately deceased.
Sharp, Lindsay & Haines, 75,000
Extensive importing merchants, doing a good business in South Second street.
Shewell, Thomas 50,000
Came from Bucks county ; was in the wholesale dry goods business in North
Second street, and afterwards in Market street, now retired upon his fortune, and
enjoying the reputation of an honest man and good citizen. He came to the city
a poor boy.
Sibbald, Charles, F. 1,500,000
Merchant, and late contractor with the United States for cutting live oak tim-
ber. A most unfortunate man for a long time, but now, by an act of Congress,
a most lucky and rich man, and says he " would not exchange situations with
any man in Pennsylvania." Vice President Dallas has for a series of years acted
as his lawyer. Mr. Sibbald is now paid for his losses, and compensated for his
supposed profits. After this, we hope Congress will pay all other just claims,
and especially those for French spoilations, about which, hear Chief Justice
Marshall. Hon. B. Watkins Leigh testifies positively that this great jurist did,
in a conversation with him, and some two or three others, while a bill was before
the Senate, for the payment of the claims for French Spoliations, prior to 1800,
express an opinion, distinctly and positively, that the United States ought to make
provision for the payment of those claims ; and the opinion made the more im-
pression on Mr. Leigh, since it was contrary to an idea which he had taken up
on the subject, and it determined him to examine it with greater care and delibera-
tion, than he had before given to it.
Siter, John 100,000
Came from Chester county, was brought up with the old house of Cooke &
Cresson, and now one of the firm of Siter, Price & Co. He married a Miss
Miller, of this city.
Simmons^ Stephen, (Estate) 100,000
Simmons, Samuel R. 50,000
Made his money in company with his late father, Stephen Simmons, in the
lumber business.
Singer, John 50,000
Son of the late John Singer, Sr., from whom he obtained most of his money.
Has visited Europe for his health ; is now retired.
Sill, Joseph 50,000
An Englishman by birth. Made his money principally in the fancy dry goods
business in Chestnut street.
58 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHV
Siter, Price & Co. 200,000
This is one of the oldest and most wealthy firms in Market street, and does a
heavy business, and are the successors to the ancient and respectable house of
Cook & Crcsson. These men are among our best citizens.
Sleeper & Brother, 50,000
Extensive umbrella, parasol, and shade manufacturers ; industrious men and good
citizens.
Sloan, Henry 50,000
Smith & Seckel, 50,000
Brewers. Successors to the late rich George Pepper, in the brewing business,
occupying the old premises in South Fifth st., in which Mr. Pepper made his
millions !
Smith, William H. 150,000
Mr. S. was formerly in the business of Sugar Refining, in company with his
late father, J. George Smith, and afterwards with his brothers. He is a strict
man of business — a republican in principle, and is a gentleman of undoubted and
unimpeached integrity. He has always been a uniform and consistent disciple of
the Jefferson school, and has supported with zeal and activity every democratic
administration, since he became entitled to the right of suffrage. He married the
daughter of an upright and respected resident of the city proper ; he has held
many honorable stations, and often refused from his fellow citizens, offices of both
honor and profit ; he is esteemed for his benevolent and kind disposition, and en-
joys the reputation of a most unblemished character.
Smith, Joseph Few 75,000
An extensive flour merchant, by which business his money has been made.
Smith, Isaac R. 50,000
A shrewd business man of great industry, of the firm of Smith, Bageley & Co.
Smith, Edward 100,000
Owner of large real estate in Camden, N. J.
Smith, Huston 50,000
Brother of William H. Smith, and formerly in the sugar refining business, now
retired.
Smith, Mrs. 50,000
Widow of the late J. George Smith, sugar refiner.
Smith, Jacob R. 100,000
Smith, John B. 50,000
Is celebrated for the rearing of fine plants, &c., a business to which he has long
been devoted. Owns valuable real estate, and married a fortune.
Smith, Charles W. (Arch st.) 100,000
Smith, Samuel F. 225,000
One of the old house of Lehman & Smith, druggists, and of the firm of Lisle,
Weir & Co., auctioneers, now President of the Philadelphia Bank. Has made
his money in a quiet, easy manner. Owns a large amount of valuable real es-
tate in this city, with much land in Illinois. Married a Miss Mark of Virginia.
Now retired from all business, except that of banking.
Smith, Stephen 100,000
A colored person — a lumber merchant, and good citizen. Has an extensive
board and lumber yard at Columbia, Lancaster county, in this state. Colored
persons have been particularly favored in Philadelphia, several having risen to
fortune and respectable standing by their industry and good behavior. Mr. S. is
a humane, religious, and upright man, respected by his neighbors, and as a busi-
ness man, by all who have dealings with him.
OF WEALTHY MEN. 59
Smith, Newberry 50,000
Retired from all business for many years. Formerly engaged in shipments to
Canton and Calcutta, and when investments from those places paid handsome
profits.
Snyder & Co., C. 50,000
Grocers, doing a good business in North Third street. A respectable House
of long standing.
Snyder, Joseph 100,000
Made his money in the chair manufacturing business after a series of years of
close application and hard industry. Is a worthy citizen and an honest man.
Property in valuable real estate.
Sparks, Jr., T. & T. 50,000
Spooner, William 50,000
Spencer, James S. 1 50,000
Came to this city very poor, made his own money, in the first instance, in the
wholesale Dry Goods business, afterwards by the fortunate purchase and sale of
improving real estate. Married a Miss Hutchins, by whom he acquired some
property.
Sparks, Thomas 75,000
President of the Southwark Bank, and for a long time one of its directors.
Formerly engaged in the manufacture of lead shot.
Spohn, Mrs. William 80,000
Stokes, Charles 50,000
A native of our city — has made the tour of Europe on foot — formerly in the
dry goods business, now retired. He is the father of the talented lawyer, Wil-
liam A. Stokes, Esq. Property in real estate. A director of the State Bank at
Camden, N. J.
Stoever, Frederick 50,000
Was born in Lebanon county in this state, came to the city in 1820 with very
little capital ; has resided here ever since. Is a firm consistent and genuine re-
publican ; was an active politician in the days of Jefferson. He made his fortune
chiefly in the liquor business ; he also made considerable money by the fortunate
purchase of real estate at the Falls of Schuylkill, where he is about estabUshing a
vineyard. Is a good citizen, and a popular man of German descent.
Steinmetz, Jacob 700,000
Of German descent — property in improving real estate, chiefly in the district of
Spring Garden ; resides in the old family mansion on Coates street — once a
country seat, standing alone, and considered quite out of town.
Stone, Dexter 100,000
Of the firm of Grant & Stone — came from the eastward. Is a shrewd, know-
ing merchant, who came here without means, and acquired a fortune.
Starr & Morton, 100,000
Stiles, Benjamin 100,000
A Philadclphian — owns the beautiful mansion in Broad street near Green
Hill.
Stott, Mrs. 100,000
Widow. Her husband was a Scotchman, who made money in the trade of
tobacco and snuff. Lived for some time in Scotland, then came back again, quite
prejudiced in favor of foreign airs and tastes, and lamentable enough, lost a large
amount of money in bank stocks, «Scc.
Steen, Robert 50,000
Wl MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
Stewart, John 50,000
Merchant of Spruce street ; made his money in the West India trade. Mar-
ried a Miss Palmer.
Stewardson, Anna 50,000
Widow of the late Thomas Stewardson.
Stille, Dr. Alfred 100,000
Son of the late rich John Stille, brother of the present Benjamin Stille ; ob-
tained his property from his father's estate.
Stuart & Brothers, 60,000
Importers of English, Irish, and Scotch goods. Enterprising and accommodat-
ing merchants. Adopted citizens.
Stewardson, Thomas, (Estate) 75,000
Stone, Slado & Farnham, 100,000
Stiles, Henry 100,000
Stewart, Robert R. 50,000
Stoeker, Sr., John Clement, (Estate) 100,000
Struthers, John 50,000
By birth a Scotchman — great marble mason and manufacturer ; director of the
bank of United States — one of the most active politicians among our adopted citi-
zens.
Starr, Isaac 50,000
Stille, Benjamin 50,000
One of our oldest and most respectable merchants. Brother and partner of the
late rich John Stille. For a long time one of the directors of the Philadelphia
Bank.
Steiner, J. & J. P. 75,000
Both members of this firm came to the United States from Germany, poor and
unprotected ; are now extensive variety and fancy dealers, doing a good business
in North Second street.
Stockton, Robert F. 250,000
A native of Princeton, New Jersey, and descendent of one of the signers of the
Declaration of Independence. A captain of the navy, and projector of the steam
frigate Princeton, of which vessel he is now in command. Has held numerous
civil offices in New Jersey, and was at one time a candidate for the United States
Senate. Increased his fortune by marriage. Is a man of varied political charac-
ter. Has a residence in the western part of the city.
Stuart, Thomas 150,000
A retired Irish gentleman — was formerly agent for several extensive houses.
Sulger, Jacob 100,000
Sutter, Charles J. 50,000
A respectable citizen, who derived his money from his father's estate.
Swaim, William, (Estate) 500,000
The celebrated vender of the Panacea; once a book binder, by which means
he became acquainted with the secret of making this once esteemed valuable
patent medicine. Had a daughter married to Oliver Hopkinson, Esq., son of the
late Honorable Joseph Hopkinson, once a member of Congress, and afterwards
judge of the United States District Court, for this district.
Swain, Abell & Simmons, 60,000
The enterprising publishers of the " Public Ledger," men of great industry
OP WEALTHY MEN. 61
and perseverance. Property chiefly in real estate. They estabHshed the first
penny paper in this city, at a considerable pecuniary sacrifice in the first instance,
and introduced, upon a cheap plan, these vehicles of information and advertising,
so desirable to all classes of society. They overcame great obstacles, and made a
fortune, and have constantly employed several daily reporters, so that no item of
news, foreign or domestic, can well escape appearing in the columns of their
daily sheet. They erected the large pile of buildings at the south western
corner of Chestnut and Third streets, so well known as the " Ledger Buildings."
Svvope, George 50,000
By close attention and great industry, as a painter and glazier, this gentleman
made his money — now retired.
Sykes, Robert 75,000
Mr. S. inherited about fifty five thousand dollars, and acquired the balance by
his wife, who was a Mrs, Frenaye, and once the beautiful Miss Fontanges, a lady
of accomplishments, of French extraction.
Symington, Alexander 100,000
Was brought up to business with Charles Bird, and afterwards made his money
as a partner with him, now retired.
Tagert, Joseph 50,000
President of the Farmers' and Mechanics' bank. An adopted citizen. Proper-
ty in real estate ; owns a handsome place at Germantown, and a good residence
in the city. Is a much esteemed citizen.
Tarns, Sampson 100,000
An Englishman by birth ; came to this country very poor, and by enterprise
and industry in the china and crockery business amassed this large fortune.
Tarns, William 50,000
An Englishman by birth, and brother of Sampson Tams, made his money also
in the china and crockery trade, and acquired some by marriage to a Miss Yohe.
Taylor, Amos, (Estate) 150,000
Taylor, E. W. & L. B. 100,000
Sons of the late Lewis Taylor ; in the business of boot and shoe dealers, trunk
and travelling bag manufacturers, at the old stand of their late father, south east
corner of Market and Fifth streets.
Taylor, Robert 50,000
An Irishman by birth — formerly in business with a Mr. Gray, under the firm
of Gray & Taylor. Is now engaged largely in the emigrant business. Made a
portion of his money in the liquor business. Obtained considerable money by
marriage, having mairied the daughter of the late Thomas Leiper.
Taylor, Richard M. 50,000
Brewer, son of the late Bankson Taylor.
Taylor, John 50,000
Taylor, James, (Estate) 75,000
Mr. Taylor was an Englishman by birth, and for many years a resident British
agent of this city. He married a widow lady by the name of Mrs. Thomas.
Taylor, Levi 150,000
Made his money in the wholesale grocery business. A business man of good
capacity.
Taylor, Charles 75,000
Tete, Francis 100,000
A Frenchman by birth. Made considerable money in Mexico, having resided
&i MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
at Vera Cruz, was intimate wtth Santa Anna, and is said to be a warm ftiend of the
once fallen chief magistrate. Is now largely engaged in the South America trade.
An excellent citizen, kind and humane. Is a director of the Farmers' and Me-
chanics' bank, and Union Insurance Company.
Tevis, Joshua 50,000
Tevis, Benjamin, (Estate) 150,000
Mr. T. made a portion of his money in speculation, but the greater part in the
auction and commission business ; was a heavy dealer in stocks — was a director
of the Southwark bank. Married a Miss Hunter. Came from Kentucky.
Thomas, George 125,000
Of the old firm of Thomas & Martin, afterwards in the auction business with
William Gill & John B. Myers — now retired. Married a Miss Archer, sister of
the late Samuel Archer.
Thomas, Jacob M. 50,000
Thomas, Cowperthwaite & Co. 75,000
Thompson & Co., William R. 100,000
Thompson, R. 50,000
Of the firm of William R, Thompson & Co., wholesale grocers.
Thompson, Walter 50,000
An adopted citizen, who made his money in the grocery business.
Thorspecken & Co., F. 100,000
Importers of German, French, and other foreign merchandise.
Throckmorton, Joseph W. 50,000
Came from New Jersey. Made his money in the dry goods business, but more
especially in the trade of cloths, cassimeres, and vestings.
Tiernan, Francis 100,000
Came to this city last from Pittsburg, Pa.; has been concerned in shipping gin-
seng to China, by which he made money. Lost his amiable consort within a few
years ; she was a Miss Maslin. Property, in part, in good real estate.
Tilae, H. 50,000
Made his money in the hatting business ; now a dealer in trimmings for hat-
ters. Obtained some money by marriage.
Tingley, Caldwell & English, 100,000
Tingley, Benjamin W. 50,000
Tingley & Burton, 75,000
Tingley, Clement 50,000
Toby, Simeon 50,000
Todhunter, William 50,000
A native of England ; made his money in the dry goods business. •
Toland, Robert 150,000
A Philadelphian ; for a long time a director of the Farmers' and Mechanics'
bank. Son of the late Henry Toland ; was in business with his father many
years ago, as wholesale grocers, at the south west corner of Market and Eighth
streets ; a gentleman of most excellent business capacity ; is an exceedingly pru-
dent and careful man, and is esteemed by all who know him. He married a Miss
Price, daughter of the late John M. Price, merchant.
Tovvnsend, Elisha 50,000
Made his -money principally by dentistry. Owns and resides in a beautiful
mansion in Broad below Walnut street.
OF WEALTHY MEN. 03
Troth & Co., Henry 75,000
Wholesale and retail druggists, doing a good business, at the old cstabhshed
stand of the late Henry Troth, in Market street near Seventh.
Troth, Henry, (Estate) 50,000
Trott, Jr., Georcre 50,000
Merchant, of the firm of Borie & Trott, engaged in the shipping and commis-
sion business. Came from Baltimore.
Trotter, Nathan 200,000
Trotter, Joseph 50,000
President of the bank of Pennsylvania, and formerly a partner in business with
liis brother, Nathan Trotter, in the iron, tin, and metal trade, in North Front st.
Trotter, S. W. 50,000
An iron merchant, doing business in north Water street.
Trotter & Co., Nathan 50,000
Dry goods merchants.
Troutman, J-iCwis M. 50,000
Troutman, George M. 50,000
Son of the late George Troutman ; cashier of the Western bank, and brother
to Lewis M. Troutman.
Truitt, Pendleton & Truitt, 100,000
An extensive hardware firm in Market street, doing a handsome business.
Importers, &c.
Tryon, George W. 50,000
Late gun and pistol importer and manufacturer — now retired. Owns much
real estate, and the house in which he resides, a double one in Vine near Fifth st.
Tryon, George 50,000
Made his own money as a tin smith.
Tucker, John 75,000
Came from New York, and now one of the firm of the extensive importing
house of Gihon & Co. Mr. T. is a director of the Farmers' and Mechanics'
bank, and a very respectable citizen.
T wells, Mrs. Sarah W. 50,000
Daughter of the late rich William Chancellor, and widow of the late Edward
Twells, merchant.
Tyndale, Mrs. S. 50,000
China merchant, at the elegant warehouse, Chesnut above seventh street.
Tyson, Job R. 50,000
Attorney at law and counsellor, a man of learning and intelligence. Married
the daughter of Thomas P. Cope.
Vanderkemp, J. J. 100,000
A German, and agent for the Holland Land Company. Married a Miss Taylor
of this city.
Vansciver & Son, 50,000
Coach makers from Camden, New Jersey, and successfiil undertakers in the
art of light carriage builders.
Vansyckel, Elijah 250,000
Came from New Jersey. Made his money chiefly in the distilling business,
and a portion as a wine and liquor merchant Is fond of good horses, and enjoys
life.
64 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
Vaux, Roberts, (Estate) 75,000
Vaux, George, (Estate) 100,000
Vaux, Mrs. Mar!j;aret 50,000
Widow of the late Roberts Vaux, and mother of Richard Vaux, Recorder of the
city of Philadelphia, and of William S. Vaux. All belonging to the society of
friends.
Vezin, Charles 200,000
An adopted citizen ; a great player of the game of chess. Made his money as
an importer of German and other goods. Is a highly respected and amiable
citizen.
Vito, Vito 75,000
An Italian by birth ; emigrated to the United States fifteen or twenty years
since. Is an importer of Italian paintings, &c., by which he has amassed money.
Vogdes, John R. 50,000
Was clerk of the ma}ror's court, under Governor Wolf's administration. At-
torney and counsellor, of the firm of Vogdes & Phillips. Is a director of the
Girard bank.
Volans, Samuel 50,000
Wagner, Tobias 50.000
Son of the late John Wagner ; formerly in auction business with Robert Tay-
lor, under the firm of Taylor & Wagner ; made some money, but received the
chief of his fortune from his father's estate.
Wagner, Samuel 50,000
Son of the late John, and brother of Tobias ; married a daughter of James S.
Duval, of Germantown.
Walker & Brothers, 75,000
British agents, and importers of British and other dry goods. Came from
England.
Wallace, Robert 50,000
Lumber merchant in good standing.
Wain, Lewis 50,000
Son of the late Robert Wain, merchant, and director of the " Philadelphia con-
tributionship for the insurance of houses firom toss by fire."
Wallace, Mrs. 100,000
Sister of the honorable Horace Binney, and widow of the late John B. Wal-
lace. Had a daughter married to Charles Macalester, and another to John S.
Riddle.
Wain, Jacob S. 100,000
A retired merchant, and father-in-law to the honorable Richard Vaux, recorder
of our city.
Wain & Co., S. Morris 75,000
Mr. Wain is the son of Jacob S. Wain, and the firm are actively engaged in
the shipping business.
W\iln & Learning, 100,000
An extensive domestic dry goods commission house of very respectable standing.
Walsh, Robert F. 75,000
Made his money as one of the partners of David S. Brown & Co., an extensive
domestic house. Is the son of Christopher Walsh.
OF WEALTHY MEN, 65
Warder, B. H. 50,000
Warner, Henry 50,000
Although young in years, a retired victualler of Spring Garden, and one of the
commissioners of that district ; a son of William Warner,
Warner, John 50,000
An active and industrious victualler of Spring Garden, doing a good business.
Property safely invested in good ground rents and real estate.
Warner, William 100,000
Victualler in Spring Garden, is a school director, &c. Made considerable
money, but obtained more by marriage at several times,
Warnock, Robert & William 50,000
Made their money in the retail dry goods business, within a few years, by close
attention, and constant industry,
Warrington, Samuel R. 50,000
Watch and clock maker. Money invested mostly in bank stocks.
Waterman & Osbourn, 75,000
Watson, James 75,000
Made his money chiefly by importing watches, jewelry, and fine cutlery,
Watson, Thomas 50,000
Biscuit baker, and ship bread manufacturer, A respectable citizen, who was,
in 1845, the candidate of the native American party, in the city proper, for a seat
in our State Senate,
Watson & Sons, Charles C. 50,000
One of the oldest and most fashionable tailoring firms in the city. Men of in-
dustry and correct business habits.
Watts, Henry M, 50,000
The United States Attorney for this district, under the administration of Presi-
dent Tyler. An excellent counsellor ; married a wealthy lady of Pittsburgh,
Way, F. D, 75,000
A successful merchant, still engaged in a lucrative business in Market street.
Wayne, William 50,000
Made his money in the regular hardware business, in Market street ; a plain,
upright citizen of the society of friends.
Weaver, G. J. 50,000
Ship chandler — famous for making ropes for the state, for the inclined planes of
our rail ways ; an old established house.
Weaver, Elijah 50,000
Made liis own money from very small beginning, as a bookseller and stationer.
He estabUshed the first half-price book store, and by attending auctions, and strict
industry, amassed a fortune. He belongs to the society of friends.
Weber & Co., Godfrey 50,000
Importers of French and other goods. Adopted citizens.
Weir, Dr. John H, 50,000
Son of the late Silas E. Weir, auctioneer.
Weir, Silas E. (Estate) 200,000
Mr, Weir was by birth an Irishman. He was an enterprising and respectable
merchant, for some time in business with a Mr. Fisher, under the firm of Weir &
Fisher, in the dry goods line, al'tcrwards a distinguished auctioneer, in connection
at different times with John Lisle, Samuel F, Smith, and John F. Lewis, He
manied a daughter of the rich Alexander Henry, also an adopted citizen,
5
66 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
Weber, Godfrey 50,000
Welsh, John 100,000
An old and respectable shipping and commission merchant of long standing ;
an estimable citizen. Is a director of the Philadelphia bank.
Welsh, Henry 100,000
Late merchant, printer, editor, publisher, «Stc. &c.; now naval officer of the
port. Came from York county, Pa. Director of the York bank — the Girard
bank, &c. &c.; receives a fat salary of $5,000 from the government.
Welsh, Samuel 50,000
Welsh, Jr., John 50,000
Welsh, S. & W. 100,000
One of the heaviest shipping and commission houses in the city, possessing un-
bounded confidence. Have visited Europe, and are the sons of John Welsh,
merchant.
West, James 50,000
Retired from business, and resides in Chesnut west of Broad street. Is an
adopted citizen.
West, Charles C. 50,000
Made his money in the tailoring business, and invested it in good real estate.
West, George G. 60,000
A respectable citizen of Southwark. He received his estate by marriage ; is a
clerk in the Philadelphia bank.
Wetherill, John Price 300,000
An extensive manufacturer of white lead, chemicals, &c. President of the
Schuylkill bank, and member of Select Council. Of the society of free Quakers,
and of an old Philadelphia family. Of the firm of Wetherill & Brother; son of
the late Samuel Wetherill, Jr.; is a fireman, and has been a military man, and had
the command of a troop of horse. He inherited a large fortune from his father.
Mr. W. is a good chemist, and is almost always to be found in the laboratory of
the establishment ; is a man possessed of most excellent qualities, and is consid-
ered a man of science.
Wetherill, George D. 200,000
A Philadelphian, who made his money in the wholesale drug business.
Wetherill, Misses 75,000
Wetherill, Samuel M. (Estate) 50,000
Wetherill, Samuel P. (Estate 100,000
Wetherill, Dr. William 100,000
Son of the late Samuel Wetherill, Jr. Married a lady of New Jersey — a con-
nection or relation of the late Governor Bloomfield.
Wetherill, Mrs. R. (Estate) 100,000
The widow of Samuel Wetherill, Jr., and the mother of J. P. Wetherill, Wil-
liam, Charles, and Samuel P. Wetherill.
Wharton, William 50,000
A retired gentleman, from the stock of the old and respectable family of the
Whartons.
Wharton, Charles, (Estate) 100,000
Wharton, Thomas I. 50,000
Wharton, Francis R. 50,000
Of the old and respectable Wliarton family of our city. Married a daughter of
OF WEALTHY MEN. (ff
the late Gilbert Robertson ; made his money, chiefly, as supercargo in the East
India business.
Wheeler, Enoch, (Estate) 100,000
Whelan, VV. E. & J. G. 50,000
Made their own money in the lionnct and shoe business, Market street. Na-
tives of this city, and men of good standing.
Whelan, William 50,000
A retired grocer, in which business he made liis money.
Whilall, John S. 50,000
Made his money as a sea cajjtain, ahhough belonging to the society of friends.
White, Henry R. 100,000
Married and made his money ; came to the city a poor boy from Maryland.
Has been a director of the bank of the United States.
White, Ambrose 100,000
Came from the state of Delaware. Is a retired gentleman of liberal and hu-
mane principles ; was a director of the bank United States.
White, Jesse 50,000
Now in the distilling business ; once a mechanic, and then a merchant. A
Philadclphian by birth.
White, Right Reverend William, (Estate) 90,000
Bishop White was a man of great learning, of universal popularity, and the
ornament and defence of the Protestant Episcopal Church. He was born in Phi-
ladelphia in April, 1748. He was ordained to the ministry of the gospel in 1770.
He was consecrated Bishop in 1787, in London. At the time of his death, he
was in the 80th year of his age, and in the 66th of his ministry, and in the .50th
year of his episcopate. He was buried in the church in which he was baptized
fulfilling the beautiful description which Job gives as the early desire of his heart.
" Then I said, I shall die in my nest : I shall multiply my days ua the sand."
White, Thomas H. 50,000
Son of the late Right Reverend Bishop White, and brother-in-law to Joseph
Sims. Was once in the wine and liquor business in Dock street.
Whitehead, Hannah 50,000
Wicht, John H. 100,000
Came from Germany ; of the house of Wicht & Sayen, importers. Made his
money by importing German and other goods ; a gentlemanly, polite, and humane
citizen.
Wickersham, Thomas 75,000
Formerly in the dry goods business, with a Mr. Blackwood, under the firm of
Blackwood & Wickersham; now a shrewd stock broker. Came from New
Jersey.
Wickoff, Henry 100,000
Of an old family of Russian descent, where the elder branch still survives in
the person of a count Simon Wickofi", whose estates lie near Moscow. Hen-
ry is a graduate at Yale College; studied law under the honorable Joseph R.
IngersoU, and admitted to the bar. Has travelled extensively in Europe, and
Asia Minor, &c. Was attached to the American embassy at London; great
friend to the fine arts, and fine artistes ; estabhshed a journal at New York, which
was eventually sold to the Messrs. S t's, and is now connected with the
" Pekin Tea Company," for the importation of the finest teas of China, lately
organized at New York, under the auspices, it is said, of the celebrated East
India company of England, very flourishing. Inherited a fortune, and having
nothing to do, has been rather eccentric in his doings.
68 MEMOIRS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
Wickoff, Peter 50,000
Wickoff, George H. 50,000
Also, of an old family of Russian descent ; is an esteemed gentleman of the
old school.
Wiegand & Snowden, 50,000
Made their money in the very important business of surgical instrument
makers. Mr. W., one of the partners, was formerly a member of the State
Legislature.
Wiener, H. 50,000
A German, who made his money as an agent of New York dry goods houses,
also, occasionally, an importer of German and English merchandize.
Wilcox, Benjamin C. (Estate) 100,000
Mr. Wilcox made his money by a long residence in China. Was a Philadel-
phian by birth, and the son of a highly respected shipping merchant, of olden
times.
Wilcox, Edmund 50,000
Reported to be worth this sum. Is a director of the Mechanics' bank, and
Delaware Insurance Company.
Wiley, Benjamin 50,000
A carpenter by trade, and formerly a colonel of militia. A good citizen.
Williamson & Son, Peter 50,000
Druggists in South Second street, Southwark ; a house of long and respectable
standing.
Williams, Henry J. 50,000
A prominent member of the bar, with a good practice; married a daughter of
the late Dr. Benjamin Rush, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.
Is the son of the late General Williams, of this city.
Williams, George 75,000
At one time a British agent, doing a large business ; now retired. A humane
citizen, and a manager of the Magdalen Asylum. Belongs to the society of
friends.
Willing, Rebecca 75,000
Widow. Property chiefly in real estate.
Willing, Dr. Charles 50,000
A director of the Philadelphia Contributionship for the Insurance of Houses
from loss by Fire. Lives retired upon his fortune.
Willing, Richard 200,000
prSon of the elder Thomas Willing, deceased, and of the ancient firm of Willing
& Francis, a large shipping house in by-gone days. Mr. W. is a highly respect-
able citizen, and president of the Mutual Insurance Company.
Willig, George 75,000
A much esteemed teacher and seller of music. Married a Miss Hickman.
Wilson, R.&W. 50,000
Silver platers and importers, doing a large business in the manufacturing line.
Wilson, James 50,000
Winder, William H. 50,000
Winebrener, David 50,000
A retired tailor, at which business he made money. Came from the interior
of the state. Is now owner of some of the most valuable real estate in the city ;
formerly a member of city councils.
OF WEALTHY MEN. 69
Wistar, Richard 300,000
A son of fortune and the late Richard Wistar, iron monger, who kept store for
a long time at the north west corner of Market and Third streets. Obtained his
property from his father and aunt ; he owns a large landed estate in the county
of Philadelphia, besides real estate in the city, and iu different parts of the state.
He married a Miss Lewis.
Wistar, Dr. Mifflin 50,000
Wistar, Thomas 100,000
Wolbert, C. J. 50,000
Womrath, George F. 50,000
Made his own money in the business of a furrier. Is a German by birth, and
a very respectable citizen.
Wood & Abbott, 100,000
Wood, Richard D. 100.000
Came from New Jersey to Philadelphia a poor boy. Made his own money in
the dry goods jobbing business, and is a director of tlie Philadelphia bank.
Wood, Horatio C. 80,000
Wood, Dr. George B. 200,000
Came from New Jersey ; obtained his fortune by marriage with the daughter
of the late Peter Hahn, merchant. Dr. Wood is an eminent physician, and a
man of great science.
Wood, C. S. 50,000
Wood, H. C. & Abbott, 50,000
Wholesale dry goods merchants. Came from New Jersey.
Wood & Nelson, 50,000
Wholesale dealers in fancy dry goods, of British manufacture.
Wood, Jane 50,000
The proprietor of the celebrated confectionery in Chesnut street, opposite Inde-
pendence Hall. Commenced business upon a very small scale, and with a very
small capital, and has risen to opulence through years of sheer industry and close
attention to business.
Wood & Co., Thomas 50,000
Joseph and Thomas Wood are the sons of the late Catharine Wood, who was
for many years a celebrated retail dry goods dealer and trader in silks for ladies'
garments, and kept store for a long time in North Second street, a few doors above
Market street.
Wood, Joseph 50,000
Late merchant, and son of the late Catharine Wood, once largely engaged in
the dry goods business in North Second street.
Woodhouse, Samuel, (Estate) 50,000
Late a captain in the United States navy. Property in real estate in the city
and country.
Woodward & Co., C. 50,000
Warder, J. H. 50,000
Worrell & Coates, 75,000
Large importers of British goods, of long and respectable standing.
Worrell, William 100,000
A director of the Philadelphia bank. Formerly in business with the late Jolin
Jennings in the dry goods trade.
70 MEMCI.IS AND AUTO-BIOGRAPHV
Worrell, John R. 100,000
Made his money in the dry goods business. Is a brother of William Worrell,
with whom he was formerly engaged in the importing of British merchandize.
Worrell, Captain Joseph 75,000
Son of the late Joseph Worrell, who was a carpenter by trade, and a republican
of the days of 1798 — 9. Is brother-in-law to Josiah Randall, Esq., attorney at law.
Workman, Eustis & Penrose, 50,000
Wright & Brothers, 75,000
Began business on a small scale, and are now extensive umbrella manufactur-
ers, in Market street.
Wright & Sons, Peter 50,000
Wright & Nephew, A. 50,000
Wright, William 75,000
Inventor of Wright's celebrated Indian vegetable pills, by which he has made a
fortune in a few years. Has an only daughter.
Wiirts, Miisgrave k Wurts, . 100,000
An extensive wholesale domestic and foreign dry goods house, of good standing.
Wyeth, John 50,000
A gentleman retired from business ; came from Harrisburg, Pa.; has his money
invested in good and safe securities.
Wyman, Jonas 75,000
Came from the eastward poor ; went into the bonnet and shoe business, b}'
which he made a fortune ; retired upon a farm, but after a few years returned to
the city.
Yardley, Sowers & Co., 50,000
Wholesale dealers and importers of hardware and cutlery. A house of re-
spectable standing.
Yarnall, Charles (Druggist,) 50,000
Yarnall, B. H. 50,000
Yarnall & Co., D. D. 50,000
Wholesale and retail dealers in hardware, &c.
Yarnall, Ellis 50,000
Yarnall, Edward (Druggist,) 50,000
Yarnall, Jr., Ellis (Druggist,) 50,000
Yarnall & Co., E.&C. 100,000
Philadelphians, of an old and respectable family of Quakers. In the wholesale
drug and chemical business.
Yarrow, John 50,000
Yohe, Mrs. (Estate) 100,000
Zell & Co., Thomas 50,000
Wholesale and retail dealers in hardware and cutlery.
Zieber & Co. 50,000
Mr. Zieber came from Montgomery county a poor printer. Made his money,
in the first instance, by selling Peases' horchound candy ; afterwards by selling
and publishing pamphlets and periodical works. Is now cormected with one of the
partners of the " Pubhc Ledger," and the firm have the most extensive agen-
cies throughout the states of any similar house here, for the sale of their books.
APPENDIX.
OBED COLEMAN, the great inventor of the Eolian Attachment, was
born in Barnstable county, Massachusetts, but resided a long time in Phi-
ladelphia, and may justly be claimed as one of our own citizens of wealth.
The Queen of England granted him one hundred thousand pounds sterling
for his improvement or invention. He had a brother living in this city, a
respectable and worthy citizen — a baker, named Ezra Coleman,* who
lately invented a very ingenious machine for conducting cars up inclined
planes on railways, for which he has taken out a patent right. It is said
that Obed, on his return from Europe, offered this brother a fortune, which
was refused, on the ground that he, Ezra, had " genius, skill and enterprize
enough to make a fortune for himself." The great attachment artist died
at his place recently at Saratoga, in the State of New York. We copy the
following interesting account of him and his voyage to Europe, from the
New York " True Sun," and the " London Musical World," and record his
name on the page of history, beside those of Franklin, Rittenhouse, and
others — the pride and boast of our country.
"Coleman left this city last year with a single piano, to which his inven-
tion was attached, for the purpose of obtaining a patent right, and disponing
of the same in Great Britain and the kingdoms on the continent. He did
not know a soul in London or Paris, and very little respecting the mode of
procedure in order to obtain his object. During his passage he became an
obji'ct of universal interest to his fellow passengers, some of whom proffered
him letters of introduction to their friends in Europe. He received them
without knowing or mistrusting their value.
It was only after arriving in London, and presenting one of the letters to
a Mr. Bates, that he discover 3d in that personage one of the members of the
house of Baring, Brothers & Co., and found to his surprise that the letter
was so strongly worded, that it needed only that Mr. Bates sht^uld sec and
hear his new instrument to induce him to request that it might be sent to
' • * Ezra Coleman is about putting his invention into practice, and has lately ex-
hibited at the Patent office in Wa.shington city, the working model of a train of
cars upon a rail-road, up hill and down hill, regardless of the degree of inclination
from the horizon. Briefly, on reaching a hill, the action of the locomotive is
transferred from the propelling wheels on the outer track to a smaller set of wheels
on an inside track, while in the centre, attached to the locomotive, is an endless
screw, which is adapted to work upon friction rollers, arranged in the centre of the
track. The model appears to give general satisfaction, and if brought into suc-
cessful operation, will be worth a fortune or two to the inventor, and some mil-
lions of money in averting the necessity of levelling hills and mountains, in all
future constructions of railways. The invention, it is said, attracted quite a num-
ber of visitors to the Patent office. Mr. Robbins is now getting out a patent for
this second great genius of a Coleman. If our country should continue to he pro-
lific in giving to the world such rare and valuable geniuses as the Colejians, all
Europe will soon have " to hide her diminished head," and look to us for every
great improvement in life.
72 APPENDIX. ^
his residence, where it became an object of curiosity to the nobility and the
patrons of the science, by means of which he was placed upon a footing
whence he could walk steadily to the height he sought to attain.
A few days after Coleman's arrival in London, he remembered another
letter he had received from one of his fellow passengers. He now found
that the writer was the wealthiest banker in Naples, and the one to whom
it was addressed, no other than M. Jules Benedict, pianist to the Queen,
and the second best performer in the world. On presenting it, and giving
Mr. Benedict an idea of the invention, he requested Coleman to send the in-
strument to his residence, assuring him that it should be placed in his pri-
vate study, to which no person had access, where he would practice upon
it for a week, and test its powers, and then give his opinion. This was
done, and Coleman waited with much anxiety the result. He felt that
much, perhaps every thing, depended upon Benedict's decision.
This was as favorable as could be wished. Benedict was enraptured
with the instrument, and to Coleman's astonishment he found that until he
heard him play, he knew not the extent of his own invention. To use
Coleman's own words — " Benedict made an entirely new instrument of it.
I only sought to combine the organ with the piano, but he showed me
various applications of the " attachment" that exceeded my own concep-
tions." One thing only was in the way. Benedict feared that the piano
in which the " attachment" then was might be a peculiarly formed instru-
ment, and that the invention could not be applied to any other. Coleman
assured him that not only could this be done, but that he would take the
" attachment" from the old instrument and apply it to one of Erard's grand
action piano fortes.
As this was a state of things never apprehended by Coleman, his anxiety
was very great lest Benedict's fears might prove correct. Yet he "de-
termined it should work," and the greater part of one day and one night
was passed in effecting the exchange, ft resulted in perfect success, and
from that moment Benedict never wavered in his approbation and admira-
tion of the instrument.
After Coleman had obtained his patent, and his invention had attained
the highest point in the estimation of the public, he still found " a lion in the
way." The celebrated Mr. Thalberg — the first pianist in the world — who
had been for some time on the continent, had not yet seen or heard the in-
strument. Many eminent musicians, and especially the piano-forte manu-
facturers, stood aloof, until Thalberg should give his opinion. Coleman felt
that the fate of his invention hung upon the Jiat of the dreaded Thalberg.
It was " Wait till Thalberg comes," and, " If Thalberg says so and so, then,"
&c. until the very name of Thalberg became hateful.
He arrived in London at last, and a day was appointed for his examina-
tion of the instrument. A large room was selected, into which were ad-
mitted about a dozen of the first musical artists. Benedict sat down and
played in his best style.
Thalberg stood at some distance, with his arms folded and his back turned.
He listened for awhile in that position, and then turned his face toward the
instrument. He moved softly across the floor until he stood by the side of
Benedict, where he again stopped and listened. An occasional nod of the
head was all the emotion he betrayed. Suddenly, while Benedict was in
the very midst of a splendid sonata, he laid his hand upon his arm, and, with
not a very gentle push, said "get off that stool !"
Seating himself, he dashed out in his inimitable style, and continued to
play for some time without interruption, electrifying Coleman and the other
auditors with an entirely new application of the invention. Suddenly he
stopped, and turning to Benedict, requested him to get a certain piece of
Beethoven's from the library. This was done, and Thalberg played it
APPENDIX. 78
through. Then Btriking the instrument with his hand and pointing to the
music, he said, " This is the very instrument Beethoven had in his mind
when he wrote that music ! It never has been played before .'" The next
day Coleman sold his patent right for a sum that enabled him to take his
place among millionaires.'"
The London Musical World, an authority of the highest repute in musi-
cal matters, in every department, says of this instrument —
" Our opinion of its merits is highly favorable — though we may at once
state that a piano-forte wants no such concomitant to assist its own unri-
valled qualities. A piano-forte is a piano-forte, and anything to modify its
nature derogates, in our opinion, from its effect. Nevertheless, we are in
justice bound to say that the Eolian attachment is the best constructed
thing of the kind that was ever submitted to our consideration. Its effect
is a combination of soft wind instruments, which can be swelled at will,
iromforle to piano. It may be used or not, at the will of the performer — a
great advantage.
" Its tones resemble (somewhat) those of a seraphine, but are much more
agreeable. Its independence, as it may be attached and unattached, ad lib,
and its cheapness, are great facts in its favor. It will, we hope, be the
means of banishing seraphines, and by its purity find favor with, and engage
the attention of the ciassicaZ musicians."
The Eolian Piano Fortes will remain in tune in any climate, and they
will not be affected by the transitions of the atmosphere.
Copy of a letter dated Washington, June 13, 184.5,
Coleman's Eolian Attachment, and the Old Tars of the Navy — A Scene
at Coleman's Hotel.
"Our petition has been heard. Our faith, certainly larger than a grain
of mustard seed, has effected this great result. We had a most vivifying
shower on yesterday (Thursday) afternoon, and the day closed with a bow
of promise, like a wreatii of liglit on the bosom of love, overarching the sky.
" We were witness at the Naval Court Martial on the same day, to an
incident which has been mentioned by the U. S. Journal — the main charm,
however, omitted in the notice. While the Board were listening to the
testimony of-one of the witnesses, a travelling gentleman and two ladies,
just arrived, were sitting in the elegant ladies' parlor opposite to the Conrt
Room, the doors all open to catch the little air in circulation. The gentle-
man took his seat at the piano, and, by request, commenced playing a beau-
tiful air. But, though well executed, the charm was not in the execution,
but in the celestial, harmonious accompaniment of the Eolian attachment —
the beautiful invention of the lamented Coleman — a worthy namesake of the
host of the house — in which the scene transpired. The hardy veterans of
the navy were moved — they had heard no syren music like this — they had
heard no echoes from the coral cliffs of the Southern Ocean, in the breezy
twilight of their gloomy skies, to approach it. Those glorious old tars had
been all round the world, but music like this, of the Eolian piano, they had
never heard before. They paused — they pricked up their ears, as if the
watch had called out a strange sail in the offing. They paused — several
arose — but soon they resumed their duties at the board, with an expression
of countenance, softened and benign, as if a beautiful woman had passed
through tfio room, and smiled and bowed to every one of the company.
The inventor of the Eolian attachment, after its successful application, was
assuredly prepared for the still more melodious and mellifluous harmonies
of Heaven. W.'*
74 APPENDIX.
His death was occasioned by the disease of the measles and mumps, which
he took at a public house, in New York, on a visit to that city ; in conse-
quence of sleeping in a room, where a man had lodged the night previous,
afflicted badly with that complaint. He was twenty-eight years of age, of
a fine, amiable disposition, fascinating manners, and of great worth, merit
and virtue. His constitution was delicate — his health feeble, and he al-
ways had a fear of cold or sickness — lest they should settle upon his lungs
and terminate his life, long before the average life of man had run its course
in him. We have these sad particulars from a near relative, and they
may be relied upon as accurate.
" O, I do fear thee, Claudio : and I quake,
Lest thou a feverous life should'st entertain,
And six or seven winters more respect
THAN A PERPETUAL HONOR."
Young Coleman's monument has been placed over his remains, and is the
source of considerable interest at Saratoga.
STEPHEN GIRARD is supposed to have left France when only ten or
twelve years of age, in the capacity of cabin boy, in a vessel bound to the
West Indies; this early period of his bidding a lasting farewell to the roof
of his parents, has probably given rise to the belief, that cruel treatment in-
duced him to the act of self-banishment. Whatever was the cause, how-
ever, whether his wall eye, or impatience of restraint, eagerness of enter-
prise, or thirst of speculation, which so strongly marked him in all his acts
uf life — is unknown ; it is certain he left his native home, long before others
leave school, or read or think of foreign climates. He remained but a short
time in the West Indies; and while yet a cabin boy, he arrived at New
York, from which port he continued to sail in the employ of a Captain
Randall, and to whom it is likely he bound himself, for while with him, the
conduct of Girard was so exemplary, honest, and industrious, as to endear
him to his master, and he soon grew to be a favorite with Captain Randall,
by whom he was promoted to the station of mate, and then to that of cap-
tain of a small vessel in which he made several voyages to New Orleans.
In his youth, Girard was always calm, steady, consistent, frugal, and
meditative ; sometimes good-natured, but mostly austere. After he was
out of his apprenticeship, he began to embark in various speculations, or as
the seamen term them ^'^ adventures,''^ in wliich he was always lucky. Gi-
rard's first visit to Philadelphia was in 1769, and for what purpose is little
known — speculation, or trade, enticed him, it is supposed, from New York,
and he settled himself in business in Water street, trading between the two
cities — New York and Philadelphia.
Girard's first-love was the daughter of an old ship-builder, by the name
of Lum, who lived in Water street above Vine street, who, at the time of
his courtship, acted in the capacity of a servant girl, in the house of a Col.
Shee. Polly Lum, as she was called, was blessed with charms that easily
accounted for the triumph she had made. The sincerity of his love was
soon evinced by his prompt offer of marriage, and in the following year,
1770, she became his wife.
By this marriage Mr. Girard had one child, which died in its infancy.
At a later period, he applied to the Legislature of this state for a divorce,
from which it is inferred that he enjoyed but little happiness or peace.
We have read an author who says, " the most important era in our lives,
is that in which we link our destiny with the fate of another," and no doubt
APPENDIX. 10
Mr. Girard, as well as his wife, found the truth of the observation to their
mutual sorrow.
During the trading or excursions made by Girard to New York, he be-
came acquainted with Mr. Robert Ramsey of that city, who gave him a let-
ter of introduction to Isaac Hazlehurst, Esq., then a reputable merchant of
this city, and made such a favorable impression upon the mind of Mr. H.,
that he was induced to enter into co-partnership with him, in business, to
the island of St. Domingo. In this trade Girard took the command of one
of two vessels — brigs, put into the concern— the Betsey, mounted with one
gun for defence.
In 1777, he purchased a small farm at Mount Holly, of between five and
six acres, of Isaac Huzlehurst, Esq., for the sum of five hundred dollars.
The house was a frame, one story and a half high. To this place Girard,
upon the approach of the British, removed his store and bottling establish-
ment. He remained at Mount Holly from 1776 to 1779, occupied as store
keeper and bottler.
Girard was originally a true republican, and upon one occasion assisted
some people to raise a liberty pole.
In 1780, he became engaged in the New Orleans and St. Domingo trade,
which to him proved very lucrative, and having no children, his habits of
economy and industry soon led to a rapid increase of his fortune. In 1782,
he became the leasee of a range of stores and dwellings on the east side of
Water street, north of the site of the dwelling in which he departed this
life — and on which was at that period erected a frame house, which he
occupied himself. Edward Stiles, Esq., was then owner of this property,
and estimated as the most opulent citizen of Philadelphia.
(Captain John Girard arriving in this coontry, the two brothers entered
into business, under the firm of Stephen and John Girard, in connection with
a house at Cape Francaise, under the name of Girard, Bernard &Lecrampe.
The two brothers were far from acting in harmony and concert, and a sepa-
ration soon took place; upon a settlement of their accounts by a mutual
friend, Stephen was found to be worth thirty thousand dollars, and John
si:rty thousand dollars, a circumstance which goes to show one of the
causes of the disagreement that subsisted between them.
It was the practice of Mr. Girard to build high houses, his maxim being,
"get the lot and build high ; there are no ground rents above."
Mrs. Mary Girard, his wife, was admitted into the insane department of
the Pennsylvania Hospital, on the 21st August, 1790, and died in the same
establishment on the 13th September, 1815, after having suffered an im-
prisonment in that institution of upwards of twenty-five years. Upon her
death Girard gave to the said hospital the sum of three thousand dollars.
During tlie yellow fever of 1793, Stephen Girard stood forward in the shape
of a ministering angel, in his endeavors to procure an asylum for the sick,
nurses, doctors, medicines, and all the necessaries for the dying, the poor,
and the helpless. Girard was in the constant habit of visiting his farm in
Passyunk on Sundays, and on one occasion he was called upon by his friend
Samuel Coates, who found him up a tree, trimming it, and questioned him
about working on the Sabbath, and why he was not at church — praying?
to which Girard replied, that " he could pray where he then was, and that
he should not fall down, and break his neck, would be his first prayer."
In the spring of 1812, Mr. Girard established his banking liouse with a
capital of one million three hundred thousand dollars, and the business of
the first bank United States, then unsettled, was transferred to Mr. Girard's
bank.
At the time of Stephen Girard's greatest commercial prosperity, he owned
the ships Voltaire, Helvetius, Good Friend, Rousseau, Montesquieu, and
Columbia.
76 APPENDIX.
His coal estate in Schuylkill county, amounting to sixty-eight tracts, of
upwards of four hundred acres each, are of immense value, and promise to
become in point of wealth and utility, one of the most valuable and grand
estates in the union.
Girard's illness of 1826 confined him to his house. Dr. Monges was his
attending physician, and his skill and genius combatted the disease with
success, and after a few weeks' confinement, he emerged from his disorder
with very little alteration in his health and appearance.
In the winter of 1830 he met with an accident, which very nearly cost
him ills life ; for, as he was crossing second and Market streets, on his
way from the bank home, a dearborn carriage drove furiously towards him,
and striking his head on the right cheek with the wheel, very nearly tore
off the greater part of his right ear. He walked home, and on an examina-
tion of the wound, it appeared to be more serious than was at first imagined ;
the injury extended from the eye to the ear, and it was feared that the
cheek bone was broken. " My actions must make my life," said Stephen
Girard.
After the accident we have just mentioned, Girard began to waste in
flesh, and a general alteration of his appearance denoted the exhausted ebb
of human nature. The operations performed by Dr. Physic on his cheek,
might have shaken the fortitude, and broke the constitution of a younger
man, and Girard deeply felt it, for his last will is dated about the time of
his recovery and confinement. Besides, a sensible alteration in the spirits
and temper of Girard, were now said by almost every one to be observable.
He became more reconciled to common mortals, and was more pliant
and considerate. We now find him impaired in stamina, and ill fitted to
repel the force of a malady, the most desolating of all others since the
periods of malignant fevers. Mr. Girard was attacked with the hron-
chiles, or influenza, in the last week of December, 1831, and as soon as
this became known, the whole city became agitated with the utmost anx-
iety and concern. The world in general, who neither knew or cared for
his character, felt, nevertheless, a profound interest in the issue of his indis-
position.
It is very probable that the native vigor of his constitution would have
defeated the disease, had not its force been directed against the very citadel
of reason, depriving him of the aid and resources of his own good judgment
and experience. But when the malady touched his brain with inflamma-
tion, his chance of recovery was gone. Drs. Physick and Clark attended
him.
" A friend of his who sat in his chamber an hour on the morning of his
death, represents him to have been altogether unconscious of his condition,
and incapable of recognizing those around him." A short time before he
died, he got out of his bed, and walked across the room to a chair, but soon
returned to the bed, and placing his hand upon his head, exclaimed, "Aow
violent is this disorder,'^ and died !
Statue of Stephen Girard. — In the year 1833, the Councils of the city
employed Mr. Gevelot, the artist, to prepare a statue of the late Stephen
Girard, to conform to a model which Mr. Gevelot had modeled ; and after
some time spent in preliminary arrangements, Mr. G. went to Europe to
accomplish the work, giving information from time to time of his progress.
A short time since, Mr. Gevelot arrived at New York from Paris, with
his statue carefully boxed up, though in full confidence of satisfying the
citizens of Philadelphia of iiis success. The Building Committee of the
Girard College received the case containing the statue, and according to
the articles of agreement, selected, with M. Gevelot, three artists to judge
APPENDIX. 77
of the merits of the work, viz :— Thomas Sully, John Neagle, and J. R.
Lambden, Esqrs., accomplished artists, and gentlemen in whom our citizens
will have confidence. It was agreed that the statue should be open for in-
spection on Saturday, the 5th of September, when the opinion of the judges
should be given.
Accordingly, on Saturday afternoon, the Mayor of the city, the Building
Committee, the Commissioners of the Girard Estate, and the Comir,ittee of
Finance, with the artists, and several citizens, repaired to the Colleo-e.
Tlie box had been opened, the statue taken thence, and placed upon" a
moveable pedestal, in the south-western room of the main College building.
It is the size of life. No attempt at Roman or Grecian Drapery has been
made, but Mr. Girard stands in solid marble, with the representation of the
same coat, the same vest, pantaloons and boots, which he wore when in
discharge of his duties, as mariner, merchant and banker. The opinion of
the artists will be the best notice we can make of the statue as a resemb-
lance, and as a work of art.
[report.]
" In compliance with the invitation of the Building Committee of the Gi-
rard College, and of Mr. Grevelot, the sculptor, to decide upon the likeness
of a recent statue of the late Stephen Girard, we. the subscribers, have met
and performed that duty.
" It is with pleasure we pronounce it to be a most faithful likeness.
THOMAS SULLY,
Philadelphia, Sept. 5, 1846. JOHN NEAGLE.
" The undersigned having been invited to unite with the above named gen-
tlemen, regrets his inability, from a want of personal acquaintance with^Mr.
Girard, to speak of the resemblance to the original, but having full faith in
the judgment of his coadjutors, would commend it as a work of art to the
Building Committee. J. R. LAMBDEN.
" After sucli an expression, it may be deemed almost impertinent for us to
offer an opinion. We understand that the Building Committee accepted
the report of the artists, and, of course, received the statue. We believe
that arrangements will be made to have the statue opened to the public,
after Wednesday, of this week. Some arrangements and preparations are
necessary, before opening the door of this hall to general ingress."
This statue of Stephen Girard cost thirty thousand dollars, and is a most
splendid specimen of art, but as to its exact likeness of the oricrinal, we
differ with some others. All good likenesses, it is said, are flattered, but
this is more than flattered,— an everlasting smile is placed upon the coun-
tenance of the morose old man who seldom or ever smiled, yet, as it adds to
the beauty of the statue as a whole, we do not object. After an acquaint-
ance, somewhat intimate, with Stephen Girard, of about thirty years, we
cannot but be of the opinion, that the general contour of the representation
is good, although h\s fat cheeks, and somewhat Romannosc, are rather un-
like the original. The drapery of the clothing is exceedingly well executed
—we admire the folds of his coat— the seam in the pantaloons, and the
gatherings on the shoulder. We would rather have seen his pocket hand-
kerchief half hanging out of his coat pocket, as was usual, than the bulk or
bulge that indicates its depository.
78 APPENDIX.
JACOB RIDGWAY was born 15th March, 1767, in Monnouth county,
New Jersey, (the same day on which Andrew Jackson was born;) came
to Philadelphia when a boy ; served his time in a counting house or grocery
store — after which he made several trips to sea as a supercargo. He made
a considerable sum of money by buying up French and other claims in Eu-
rope, nearly the whole amount of which he afterwards received from our
government. Mr. Ridgway was a man of great business habits, took much
exercise in walking and riding, and attended personally to the management
of his large estate. His constitution was apparently robust — his frame of
person large and square, somewhat resembling that of Stephen Girard.
When both were living considerable jealousy existed between Messrs.
Girard and Ridgway ; the former saying " he could buy the latter, and keep
him too," wkich the latter denied. The similarity of character in both,
was proverbial to many persons previous to their deaths ; they appeared to
have but one object in view — the increase of their riches — the adding of
house to house, and farm to farm. 'I'hey were both temperate men, and
had Mr. Ridgway lived to the age of Mr. Girard, he would have died richer.
He entered into business with a Mr. Smith, under the firm of Smith &
Ridgway, and continued for many years largely engaged in the mercantile
business. Tiiey made the chief of their money in the European trade, after
haviiiig been unfortunate. Mr. Ridgway was a strict economist, and very
frugal in all his personal expenditures; he had no love for show or ostenta-
tion. He dressed in a plain garb, and rode in a plain gig, drawn by a sin-
gle horse. He was a thorough bred merchant, builder, and mechanic, who
understood well the price of money and all materials for building houses.
He owned a very large amount of real estate, and kept a lumber yard of
his own, for convenience as well as economy.
Like Stephen Girard, he began business in North Water street, as a
small grocer or trader, and was successful through life, with the exception
we have made, and this vv'as only a temporary pause or suspension, with
the house of which he was a partner, who to their honor and credit, it has
always been mentioned, paid every cent of their debts — both principal and
inlerest.
For many years before his death, Mr. Ridgway took great pleasure in the
cultivation of the peach tree, and the fruit from his orchards was celebrated
in both New York and Philadelphia markets; and both cities are now in-
debted to his exertions fitr a large supply of this wholesome fruit.
Mr. Ridgway is one of the numerous instances of Jerseymen, coming to
Philadelphia, and making fortunes. He was a director and stock holder of
the bank of Pennsylvania when it failed in 1842, and it was suggested to
him, the plan of supporting the bank with his private fortune, but upon a
consultation with his near relations and friends, he declined it, and the
doors of the bank were suffered to be closed ! This circumstance wounded
the pride and honor of a merchant and banker, who had so long and faith-
fully served at its board of directors. Indeed, it was hard to believe, that
an institution in which the state was so much interested at the time, could
be allowed to fail ; while it was backed with the state public deposits, and
had enrolled among its directors such men as Charles Penrose, Jacob R,
Smith, Wm. E. i lacker, R. M. Lewis, David S. Brown, William Geisse,
Jacob Ridgway, and Wm. V. Anderson. Had Mr. Ridgway possessed the
same talent for banking operations as Stephen Girard, we venture to say,
he never would have hesitated to advance his whole property to sustain an
institution so nearly connected with his own prosperity and renown.
In giving this brief portraiture of the life and character of Mr. Ridgway,
we pretend not to give all the interesting parts of his history; such as it is,
it holds up to our youth a bright example, and to rising merchants it de-
monstrates, as the surest, and most certain road to eminence, that to a pure
APPENDIX. 79
moral character, and strict integrity, must be added an iinflinching devotion
to the public good. Mr. Ridgway, like Mr. Girard, was a plain honest
citizen, and Philadelphia will, long after they are both forgotten, possess
monuments of their erection and usefulness. The extensive ranges of
buildings erected by either in their life time, will endure to age?. Of all
our prosperous merchants, Girard and Ridgway will be remembered — re-
membered when the less prosperous ones — Pratt, Clapier, Sims, Beck, and
Ralston — will be forgotten.
In contemplating the history of Mr. Ridgway, as a great and successful
merchant at home or abroad, we are led to hope that his example will be
followed by many an enterprising young merchant. The benefits of his ex-
perience and wisdom, will teach many a youth coming to our city to serve
an apprenticeship, and the worth of that valuable quality, honesty, for it
was integrity and perseverence that made the fortunes of Girard and Ridg-
way ; one came to our city a poor boy, without friends, from France, and the
other a poor boy, without friends, from New Jersey. New York may boast
of her John Jacob Astors, but Philadelphia is satisfied in the memory of her
Gi'rards, Ridgways, Ralstons, Pratts, and Paul Becks. That man brought
nothing into the world, and can take nothing out of it, is a solemn warning
for us to make good use of our time, and to erect such monuments as will
insure our remembrance with posterity, and our happines in the world to
come.
Let us never view it as decidedly to our disadvantage to be of humble
origin, or to find our lot cast in the shade or the by-path of life. Action —
honorable, untiring, persevering action — will rescue us from dumb forget-
fulness, and in our blessed country, of equal laws and exact justice, will, in
due time, acquire for each of us, that station for which Providence designed
us. It may not give us political office, but it will certainly give us what is
often far better, and not less the " post of honor," a private station of useful-
ness and self-respect — a consciousness of deserving, if not of commanding,
success in every laudable enterprize. We have before us the examples of
Astor, Girard, and Ridgway, three of the richest men of America, who
rose from humble origin — from obscurity, and without friends, to distinction
and consideration. We are a. calculating people; we reckon not without
authority, but after all we possess but few Astors, Girards, or Ridgways.
Mr. Ridgway in his bequest was wise and honorable, and even where he
did not bestow legacies, he transmitted his care and friendship to his son,
in behalf of several deserving individuals with whom he iiad transacted busi-
ness. We look with pride and satisfaction upon the will of the man who leaves
his property to his relations and friends. Mr. Ridgway has left no fund to
erect a college for orphans, and this fact is hardly to be regretted, when we
see the unfinished one endowed by Girard, and the idle and vacant "Pres-
ton Retreat," with no funds left of the estate, to support any inmates, or
poor widows. Public benefactors should be such during their lives, and not
depend upon others to erect monuments to their fame and good intentions.
Selfishness has too much to do with money matters, now a days, to allow
contracts between the dead and living — the faithfiil execution of wills to be
strictly performed. It is delightful to witness the efl'ect of ones' charity
during our lives, and from observation the rich will no doubt profit, and not
depend upon posterity.
The perseverence and industry of Jacob Ridgway may be faithfully illus-
trated by the following relation and comparison : The renowned Gustavu3
Vasa, of Sweden, was encouraged never to despair in any enterprize,
by witnessing one day, when driven to take shelter in a shed from the
violence of a storm, the operations of a spider in conveying a beetle, or some
insect larger than itself, up a beam to its web. He saw it ascend for the
first time a little ways, and fall. Again it ascended a very little further,
80 APPENDIX.
and fell. A third time it ascended still further, and again fell backwards
with its prey. His curiosity was excited to witness iis operations. He
counted its partial ascent, and as uniform fall, for sixty-nine times. On
the seventieth time it succeeded in gaining', with its load, the mazy laby-
rinth. "Surely," said he, "if this insignificant creature, to satisfy the
mere cravings of animal appetite, can thus labor, and toil, and strive, what
ought not rational man to encounter, fur the sake of fame and immortality."
Men, like the waves of the sea, may and should be made the purer by their
own action. In this free country every man is essentially the artificer of
his own fortune, and he must bring about the desired end by a series of con-
stant and untiring exertions. Mr. Ridgway did so; he was truly the arti-
ficer of his own fortune. Let us not estimate the value of men by the
actions of their ancestors, but from their own good or bad acts. Do we
need the operation of any more powerful impetus to exertion than is seen
and felt in the very constitutions of our nature — in that fitness of things —
that adaptation of means to the end, which places the source and centre of
human happiness in action — untiring and honorable action 1 It was untir-
ing and constant industry that made the fortunes of Girard and Ridgway,
and the same application of time and means, will yet make the fortunes of
thousands born and unborn, in the land of the free, and the home of the
brave.
We have said that Mr. Ridgway was a strict economist; he was truly
so, for the writer of this memoir was often consulted by him, with regard to
the kind and quality of clothing he should buy and wear on his person. He
was no friend to fashionable tailors, but bought his own cloths and cassi-
meres, and had them made up upon the cheapest terms. No censure can
be justly attributed to the citizen who thus consults his own convenience
and taste, in procuring his wearing apparel upon the best conditions. He
gave no large entertainments, although so well able, and well situated by
his connections, to live with the gay and the elite of refined society — with
the true aristocracy of our "Quaker city." Every wise and virtuous citi-
zen, every friend of truth and commercial rectitude will delight to honor
exemplary men. Men of ardent, firm, and energetic character, like that of
Mr. Ridgway, will always be distinguished for their spirit of enterprize,
especially when crowned with success, and the accumulation of a large
fortune.
There is a happy contrast in the character of Mr. Ridgway, with that of
Stephen Girard ; the latter once pleaded the statute of limitations in the
supreme court of the United States, Jacob Ridgway could not have been
influenced to put in such a plea, to obtain a verdict. For this act, Girard
has been generally and loudly condemned ; nor can he be defended, even
on the supposition that ambition, and not want of rectitude, impelled him to
resort to so desperate and dangerous an expedient of evading the payment
of a just debt,
A singular coincidence with Mr, Ridgway and Stephen Girard, deserves
to be mentioned, as one of the most extraordinary occurrences of modern
times. They were both run down about the same time previous to their
deaths by carriages in the public streets, Mr. Ridgway in crossing Market
and third streets was injured by a cart running against him, and, although
the wound was not so serious as that of Mr. Girard, still its effects may
have been great, and the precursor of the malady that caused his demise.
Mr. Ridgway visited New Jersey prior to his death — without a great coat
or umbrella, was caught in a shower of rain, got extremely wet, and re-
mained in his wet clothes a considerable time before he reached home, was
taken with a severe cold, which produced the erysipelas, and terminated his
life m his 77th year, in May, 1843. Mr. Ridgway left one son and two
daughters to inherit his large estate of more than three million of dollars.
THE END.
[PRICE 37^ CCniTii).
MEMOIRS
AUTO-BIOGRAPHY
OF SOME OF THE
WEALTHY CITIZENS
OF PHILADELPHIA,
WITH A FAIR ESTIMATE OF THEIR ESTATES— FOUNDED UPON
A KNOWLEDGE OF FACTS.
WITH AN APPENDIX:
CONTAINING PARTICULAR ACCOl'NTS OF THE LIVES OF
STEPHEN GIRARD, JACOB RIDGWAY, and OBED COLEMAN,
OBTAINED FHOM AUTHENTIC SOURCES.
BY A MERCHANT OF PHILADELPHIA.
PHILADELPHIA:
FOR SALE BY THE BOOKSELLERS,
1846.
I (
INTERESTING TABLES.
VA EALTH OF England. — We give as an instance of the extraordinary
wealth and enterprise of England, the following summary of bills applied
for during the present session of Parliament, for which a subscription con-
tract, or undertaking in lieu thereof, has been deposited in the Private Bill
Office :—
DESCRIPTION.
ESTIMATED EXPENSE.
CAPITAL STOCK.
Railways, . . -
-
£92,921,779
94,812,813
Navigations and canals,
-
176,190
—
Waterworks, - - -
-
613,452
732,080
Ferries and docks, -
-
1,653,000
1,000,000
Piers and harbors.
-
331,050
—
Bridges,
-
49,500
22,000
Roads, . . . -
-
3,558
—
£95,748,529 - 96,566,893
Here it is proposed to invest the enormous sum of 482,834,465 dollars in
railways and other works, in addition to those now in active working; and
this, too, in a country whose public debt amounts to £800,010,000 sterling.
Capital of Banks in the City of New York.
American Exchange, 1,1-55,400
Bank of America, 2,000,000
Bank of Commerce, 5,000,000
Bank of New York, 1,000,000
Bank of the United States, in New York, winding up.
Bank of the Slate of New York, 2,000,000
Butchers' and Drovers', 500,000
Chelsea, 100,000
Chemical, .500,000
City, 720,000
Clinton, winding up.
Commercial, in hands of Receiver.
Delaware and Hudson Canal Company, ..... 1,992,000
Dry Dock, 420,000
Fulton, 600,000
Greenwich, 200,000
Lafayette, in hands of Receiver.
Leather Manufacturers', 600,C00
Manhattan, 2,050,000
Mechanics,' 1.400,000
Mechanics' Banking Association, 632,000
Mechanics' and Traders', 200,000
Merchants', 1,400,000
Merchants' Exchange, 750,000
National Bank, 750,000
j New York State Security.— 52 Wall.
'i N. A. Trust and Banking Co., at American Exch. Bank, 34 Wall.
North River, - - - - 650,000
Phenix, 1,200,000
Seventh Ward, 500,000
Tradesmen's, 400,000
Union, 1,000,000
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